Jack Lowden has emerged as the leading betting favourite to become the next James Bond, with Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor among the actors linked to reported final screen tests as the search for Daniel Craig’s successor enters a decisive phase.
The Independent reported that William Hill had Lowden at odds of 4/6, ahead of Turner at 3/1. Jack Barton was listed at 8/1, while Jack O’Connell and O’Connor were both at 12/1. These figures reflect bookmakers’ markets at the time of publication, not an official casting decision.
The latest reports suggest the selection process is narrowing, but the names appearing in betting lists do not necessarily match those being considered for screen tests. Amazon MGM Studios has not confirmed the final shortlist or announced who will take over the role.
Lowden and Turner lead the betting market
Lowden, 36, is known internationally for his role as River Cartwright in the espionage drama Slow Horses. His experience in a spy thriller has become part of the discussion surrounding his reported candidacy, although there is no confirmation that producers have selected him.
If cast, the Scottish actor would follow Sean Connery as a Scottish performer to play the iconic British intelligence agent. The prospect has drawn attention as the franchise prepares for a new era following Craig’s final appearance in No Time to Die, released in 2021.
Turner, also 36, remains a major contender in the betting market. He is known for the Fantastic Beasts films and played Major John Egan in the Second World War miniseries Masters of the Air. His recent marriage to singer Dua Lipa has also kept him in the public spotlight, but celebrity attention should not be confused with evidence of casting.
O’Connor, 36, has been linked to the reported screen-test process. His credits include The Crown and Challengers. While he was listed at longer odds than Lowden and Turner in The Independent’s October 23 report, separate betting coverage has recorded movement in his market price.
The differences between reports underline how quickly odds can change as new casting rumours circulate. A shortened price can reflect bookmakers adjusting their markets in response to publicity or betting activity; it does not establish that a studio has made its decision.
Why the reported shortlist matters more than the odds
The Independent’s list also included Barton, known for playing David Nelson in Heartstopper, and O’Connell, whose credits include Sinners and Skins. But the reported betting order is not the same as a confirmed list of finalists.
Reports published on October 22 and 23 linked Lowden, Turner and O’Connor to final screen tests, while the identity of a fourth possible candidate remained unclear. Other reports said O’Connell and Jacob Elordi would not be testing, illustrating the uncertainty surrounding the selection process.
Richard Madden, known for Bodyguard and Citadel, has also resurfaced in coverage as a possible contender. However, reports of his position in the betting market do not establish that he has been invited to audition.
The distinction is important because a casting process can involve actors who attract relatively little betting interest, while a bookmaker’s list can continue to include performers who are no longer actively under consideration. Until the studio confirms the names, all reported shortlists should be treated as provisional.
The next stage is expected to test more than an actor’s resemblance to previous Bonds. Screen tests can assess performance, dialogue delivery, physical presence and the ability to carry action sequences. Bond must also work across different kinds of scenes, from suspense and combat to humour and the character’s more restrained moments.
Amazon MGM’s new Bond era
The casting search is taking place under a changed ownership and creative-control structure. Amazon MGM Studios now has creative control of the James Bond franchise following its deal with longtime franchise stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.
Denis Villeneuve, known for Dune and Blade Runner 2049, is set to direct the next Bond film, with Steven Knight, the creator of Peaky Blinders, reported to be writing the screenplay. The combination points to a new creative team shaping the character after Craig’s 15-year tenure.
The challenge is to renew the franchise without losing the elements that have made 007 recognisable across generations. Bond films have repeatedly changed tone and style as different actors have taken over, from Connery’s original screen portrayal to Roger Moore’s lighter approach and Craig’s more physically grounded interpretation.
The next casting decision will therefore affect more than the identity of the lead actor. It will help establish the tone of the next film and signal how the producers intend to position Bond for a new audience.
An announcement before the end of 2026 has been discussed in media reports, but Amazon MGM has not confirmed a date. The next film’s release schedule also remains subject to official announcements.
For now, Lowden’s position at the top of the betting market makes him a central figure in the conversation, while Turner and O’Connor remain among the names associated with the reported audition stage. The decisive information will be the studio’s announcement, not the movement of betting odds.
FAQs
Who is the favourite to become the next James Bond?
Jack Lowden led William Hill’s betting market at 4/6. Betting odds fluctuate and do not confirm casting, reports The Independent.
Who are the other actors linked to the role?
Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor have been linked to reported screen tests. Jack Barton, Jack O’Connell and Richard Madden have also appeared in coverage of the wider betting market or casting speculation, but their reported status varies.
Has Amazon MGM officially announced the next James Bond?
No official casting announcement has been confirmed in the reports cited here.
Who will direct and write the next James Bond film?
Denis Villeneuve is set to direct, and Steven Knight has been reported as the screenwriter.
When will the next James Bond actor be announced?
Media reports have suggested an announcement could come before the end of 2026, but the studio has not confirmed a date.