Ever since Daniel Craig hung up his Walther PPK in 2021, speculation about who would inherit the iconic mantle of James Bond has been relentless. Bookmakers have shuffled odds, fans have argued passionately online, and every few weeks a new name seems to emerge—only to be shot down by the next rumor. But as the world edges closer to the long-awaited casting announcement, the search for 007 has taken some unexpected turns, with fresh faces, surprising withdrawals, and a director determined to chart a new course for the franchise.
According to Deadline, director Denis Villeneuve—best known for his work on blockbusters like Dune—has set three clear criteria for the next Bond: he must be a man, he must be British, and, perhaps most intriguingly, he must be an unknown. This declaration has thrown the odds-makers’ favorites into disarray. Gone, it seems, are the days when established stars like Henry Cavill or Idris Elba dominated the conversation. Instead, Villeneuve’s vision hints at a return to the days when Bond was a blank slate, ready to be molded into something fresh and unpredictable.
But who are the names still in the mix, and what do those who’ve stepped aside have to say? Metro recently compiled a list of actors they believe should be considered—ranging from rising stars to unconventional choices—and the debate is as lively as ever.
One of the most talked-about contenders is Aaron Pierre. At 31, Pierre has already made waves in Hollywood, thanks to his lead role in Netflix’s action-packed Rebel Ridge, which recently snagged a Creative Arts Emmy. As Metro’s Alicia Adejobi put it, “He’s British, ripped to the gods and already knows how to create a pulsating action sequence—there’s basically no reason why Aaron Pierre shouldn’t be the next James Bond.” Pierre’s charisma and versatility have also been on display in projects like Mufasa: The Lion King and The Morning Show, suggesting he’s just getting started.
Damson Idris is another name generating buzz. Fresh off his scene-stealing turn in the 2025 film F1, Idris has been praised for his ability to handle blockbuster pressure and bring a mischievous sparkle to his roles. “Damson has a sparkle in his eye that has been missing from the franchise for a while,” wrote Rishma Dosani in Metro. Idris himself has teased the idea, recently quipping on the Today Show, “I’m already James Bond.” Whether that’s bravado or foreshadowing remains to be seen, but fans are eager to see what he could bring to the role.
Then there’s Louis Partridge, the 22-year-old actor who has turned heads with his performance in the TV series House of Guinness and the film Enola Holmes. While his age makes him an unconventional choice for MI6’s top agent, Pierra Willix of Metro argues that Partridge’s maturity and screen presence could be exactly what the franchise needs for a new generation.
Not all suggestions stick to the traditional Bond mold. Mia Goth, known for her intense performances in Pearl and Infinity Pool, has been championed as a radical choice who could completely redefine the character. As Brooke Ivey Johnson put it, casting Goth “would not only shatter the long-standing gender barrier but also push the franchise into bold new territory, reflecting a modern appetite for risk-taking in blockbuster cinema.” It’s a provocative idea, and one that would undoubtedly spark debate among die-hard Bond fans.
Versatility is the name of the game for Will Sharpe, 39, whose varied roles in The White Lotus, Too Much, and A Real Pain have shown he can handle just about anything. Laura Harman of Metro notes, “Bond is supposed to be a bit of eye candy, but he also needs to have the acting chops to rip our hearts out and stamp on them with both feet. From what I’ve seen of Mr Sharpe, he’s more than capable.”
Dev Patel, meanwhile, has long been a fan favorite, especially after showing off his action credentials in Monkey Man. With his Gujarati Indian heritage, Patel would represent a significant step forward for representation in the franchise. However, as he told Metro, he fears the casting would be “tokenistic.” Still, his talent and martial arts background make him a compelling candidate in the eyes of many.
Callum Turner, 35, is another name that ticks many of the original Bond boxes: tall, slim, good-looking, and capable of projecting the “cold, cruel edge” that Ian Fleming’s character demands. “Turner has it, but I think there’s someone out there who channels it even better,” wrote Tori Brazier. It’s a sentiment echoed by many who feel that the next Bond should surprise us all.
Jack O’Connell, known for his gritty turns in Sinners and 28 Years Later, is described by Danni Scott as the “perfect pick for the next James Bond.” With a reputation for intensity and a relatively open schedule, O’Connell could be ready for the global spotlight.
But as new contenders emerge, others are stepping aside. Norton, best known for his work in House of Guinness and a string of acclaimed performances, officially withdrew from consideration in September 2025. At 40, he said, “It is a difficult decision as it will change your life. I can walk down to the pub. I like my life right now.” Speaking to The Mirror, Norton acknowledged that the role is “life-changing” and not a decision to be taken lightly. His comments underscore the immense scrutiny and disruption that comes with playing Bond—a role that can define, or even overshadow, an actor’s entire career.
He’s not alone in feeling the pressure of age and public expectation. Idris Elba, now 53, has long been a favorite among fans but has dismissed the rumors, joking, “I’m ancient” and that the speculation has made him “more famous for not playing Bond than some of the actors who did.” Other names like Henry Cavill (42), Theo James (40), Jack Lowden (35), and Tom Holland (29) have all been floated, but with Villeneuve’s insistence on an unknown, the field remains wide open.
For context, Daniel Craig first donned the tuxedo in 2006’s Casino Royale at age 38 and wrapped up his tenure at 53 with No Time To Die. His run was marked by both critical acclaim and intense scrutiny—a reminder that the Bond role is both a golden ticket and a double-edged sword.
Meanwhile, the cultural phenomenon of Bond speculation shows no sign of slowing down. Social media, bookmakers, and entertainment journalists continue to fuel the conversation, dissecting every hint and rumor. The upcoming announcement—expected in 2026—will likely send shockwaves through the industry, especially if Villeneuve keeps his promise to cast an unknown.
While the world waits, some actors, like Norton, are content to pursue other projects. House of Guinness, the much-anticipated period drama from Steven Knight, premiered on September 25, 2025, with Norton and Louis Partridge among its star-studded cast. For these actors, the future remains bright, Bond or no Bond.
As the debate rages on, one thing is certain: whoever steps into the role of 007 will not only inherit a legacy but also face expectations unlike any other in cinema. The world will be watching, martinis in hand, ready for the next chapter in the Bond saga.
