While there’s been some early buzz surrounding the director of Bond 26, the identity of the next James Bond remains a mystery. After Daniel Craig’s departure in No Time to Die, producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson are reportedly looking for a “thirty-something” actor who can hold the role for at least a decade. This criteria has already eliminated some long-time fan favorites. Idris Elba, for example, seems to have stepped back, while Taron Egerton has hinted that the producers already have their pick.
So, who could step into the iconic tuxedo next? Here’s a list of 25 potential candidates, ranging from established stars to emerging talents.
Next James Bond – The 25 Actors Who Could Be the Next James Bond
1. Aaron Taylor-Johnson
Aaron Taylor-Johnson, known for his roles in Kick-Ass and Bullet Train, has suddenly emerged as a top contender. Reports suggest that he had a screen test in 2022 and impressed Barbara Broccoli, with sources claiming the role is his if he wants it.
2. Tom Hardy
Tom Hardy is a popular favorite, thanks to his intense performances in Mad Max: Fury Road and The Dark Knight Rises. While his physicality and acting chops make him a solid Bond choice, his age (he’ll be in his 50s by the time filming starts) may pose an issue for long-term commitment to the franchise.
3. Henry Cavill
Henry Cavill has the looks and charm needed for 007, proven by his performance in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.. Although Cavill previously auditioned for the role and lost to Craig in 2005, his past high-profile roles, including Superman, might count against him. The producers prefer less famous faces for Bond.
4. Idris Elba
Idris Elba has long been a fan favorite to become the first Black James Bond. His role in Luther showcases the kind of grit and charisma needed for 007. However, Elba has distanced himself from the role in recent interviews, stating he’s happy with his current projects, including Luther.
5. Rege-Jean Page
Thanks to his breakout role in Bridgerton, Rege-Jean Page became a favorite for Bond. He has the charisma and suave demeanor that many associate with 007, and even received praise from former Bond Pierce Brosnan. He’s also set to star in a Saint reboot, another spy series.
6. Lashana Lynch
Lashana Lynch’s portrayal of new 007 agent Nomi in No Time to Die sparked discussion about her potentially taking over as the lead in the Bond franchise. While many speculate about a female Bond, the producers have expressed their commitment to keeping the character male. However, Lynch could still take a central role in a reimagined Bond universe.
7. Cillian Murphy
Cillian Murphy has proven his versatility in films like Oppenheimer and TV series like Peaky Blinders. His range and ability to disappear into roles make him an intriguing Bond contender. However, he’s on the older side at 47, which could limit his long-term viability.
8. Sam Heughan
Sam Heughan, known for Outlander and SAS: Red Notice, has the action chops and suave look needed for Bond. However, at 43, he may be a little too mature to commit to a decade-long franchise like Bond.
9. Sope Dirisu
Sope Dirisu, who impressed in Gangs of London, has the physicality and presence to embody 007. At 33, he’s young enough to carry the franchise for years to come. His growing popularity puts him on many lists of potential Bond candidates.
10. Richard Madden
Richard Madden’s performances in The Bodyguard and Game of Thrones have shown he can handle both the action and emotional depth required of Bond. At 37, Madden is at the right age to commit to the role for a decade, and his increasing recognition makes him a strong contender.
11. Jack Lowden
Jack Lowden, known for Slow Horses, has a growing body of work that showcases his potential as Bond. His recent rise to fame makes him one to watch for 007, especially with his ability to handle both action and drama.
12. Dev Patel
Dev Patel has steadily built an impressive career, with standout performances in The Green Knight and The Personal History of David Copperfield. His age and talent make him an intriguing candidate, though he’s somewhat hesitant about the role, acknowledging he’s often linked with it.
13. Harris Dickinson
At 27, Harris Dickinson is one of the youngest actors in the conversation, but his performances in Triangle of Sadness and The King’s Man prove he can handle the physical and dramatic aspects of Bond. His rising career could see him take on the iconic role.
14. Tom Hiddleston
Tom Hiddleston, famous for his role as Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has the charm and elegance required for Bond. His work in The Night Manager proves he can handle the suave, charismatic side of the character, though his busy Marvel schedule could be a conflict.
15. James Norton
James Norton has frequently been mentioned as a potential Bond, with his roles in McMafia and Grantchester showcasing his ability to command the screen. At 39, Norton is at the right age to take on the role for the long term.
16. Jonathan Bailey
Jonathan Bailey, known for Bridgerton and Broadchurch, is another name frequently linked with Bond. At 36, Bailey is a solid contender, with a mix of charm and intensity that would suit the role of 007.
17. Henry Golding
Henry Golding has made a name for himself in Crazy Rich Asians and Snake Eyes. His versatility and global appeal make him an interesting option for a more diverse Bond, though his previous box office struggles might hinder his candidacy.
18. Jamie Bell
Jamie Bell, known for Billy Elliot and Rocketman, has the acting chops and physicality needed for Bond. He’s yet to land a major blockbuster lead, but his performances suggest he could step into the role and make it his own.
19. John Boyega
John Boyega, who starred as Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, has expressed interest in playing Bond. His ability to handle blockbuster action and more nuanced roles makes him a potential Bond candidate, though his already high profile might work against him.
20. Will Poulter
Will Poulter has long been a fan-favorite for Bond, and while his role in the MCU as Adam Warlock could limit his availability, his thoughts on the future of Bond show he has the depth to bring something unique to the role.
21. Dan Stevens
Dan Stevens, known for his roles in Beauty and the Beast and Legion, has the acting range and physicality needed for Bond. His potential to bring both introspection and intensity to the character makes him a strong option for 007.
22. Daniel Kaluuya
Daniel Kaluuya, an Oscar-winning actor for Judas and the Black Messiah, has the presence and intensity needed for Bond. Though he’s expressed more interest in playing a Bond villain, his range and charisma make him a compelling option for 007.
23. Clive Standen
Clive Standen, known for Vikings and Taken, has the physicality and suave demeanor necessary for Bond. Though he’s not as famous as some other names, his roles have proven he could easily step into the iconic role.
24. Tom Hopper
Tom Hopper, best known for The Umbrella Academy, has the look and action chops needed for Bond. He’s a rising star with the potential to carry a major franchise, though he may be a long shot for the role.
25. Chiwetel Ejiofor
Chiwetel Ejiofor, an acclaimed actor known for 12 Years a Slave and Doctor Strange, has the depth and range necessary for Bond. His versatility and ability to balance drama with action make him a unique contender for the role.
While the search for the next Bond continues, any one of these talented actors could become the face of the iconic spy franchise. The decision, as always, will depend on the vision for Bond’s future and which actor fits that vision best.
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