James Bond Director Reportedly Plans to Cast a Newcomer f…
The next James Bond will be young, male, and British.
That’s according to a new update about the upcoming 007 film that shoots down many of the casting rumors swirling online.
On Wednesday, September 24, Deadline reported: “Those familiar with the matter tell us that the director and his collaborators are seeking a ‘fresh face’ to take on the 007 mantle in Bond 26.”
If true, this disqualifies the likes of Tom Hardy, 47, Idris Elba, 53, and Henry Cavill, 42, who have all been linked with the role. Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Jack Lowden, two other hotly tipped actors, will each be 37 by the time Bond 26 starts shooting — hardly fresh faces.
The report suggests the successor may be in his late 20s to early 30s, and possibly someone not yet well-known.
“Also,” continues the report, “James Bond will be male, as written by creator Ian Fleming, and importantly, will be an actor who hails from the British Isles.”
This rules out Timothée Chalamet, Glen Powell, Austin Butler, and Jacob Elordi, who were all rumored to be in the running.
According to Deadline, director Denis Villeneuve will soon begin casting one of the most coveted roles in Hollywood in 2026, together with producers David Heyman and Amy Pascal, and execs at Amazon MGM Studios. That’s after he completes production on Dune: Part Three.
The story is said to have nothing to do with No Time to Die. Instead, it’s as pure a reboot as possible. In this universe, it sounds like Craig’s Bond never existed.
“Bond 26 will not take up where No Time to Die, the final iteration in the franchise under Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, left us; with Bond dead,” continues the report. “‘It’s a new Bond, a new start, a fresh everything,’ is how it was put to me by a key source, who adds that it’s unlikely many associated with the past Bond regime will be involved with Bond 26.”
Steven Knight is on writing duties. He has credits on SAS Rogue Heroes, Peaky Blinders and Eastern Promises, which gives you an idea of the film’s tone.
So, when is Bond 26 set for release? The report suggests filming may start in 2027, with a release likely in October or November 2028.