The speculation surrounding who will be chosen to play the next iteration of James Bond continues to intensify, with Josh O’Connor now regarded as the frontrunner for the iconic role. The Golden Globe winner has overtaken Aaron Taylor-Johnson, previously the favorite, amid changing dynamics and odds among bookmakers.
According to data from British bookmaker Betfred, O’Connor, known for his performances in The Crown and Challengers, is now at even odds (1/1) to become the next 007, following Daniel Craig’s departure after 2021’s No Time to Die. He has rapidly ascended to the top of the list, leaving actors Aaron Taylor-Johnson at 2/1 and Theo James at 6/4. Veteran actor Henry Cavill has seen his odds plummet to 16/1, illustrating the shifting preferences of fans and bookmakers alike.
Betfred’s Robert Ford commented on O’Connor’s rise, indicating, "Josh O’Connor’s emergence in the market has taken many by surprise, but after the mass acclaim he received for his role in Challengers, Josh has now been installed as our even money favourite to become the next James Bond." Reports had previously suggested O’Connor was handpicked by producer Barbara Broccoli for the coveted role, enhancing his position among competitors.
While O’Connor’s odds reflect the excitement and prestige surrounding his recent work, the broader situation within the Bond franchise appears tumultuous. The Wall Street Journal reported tensions between Broccoli and Amazon, which acquired MGM last year for $8.5 billion. Amazon reportedly aims to transform the Bond franchise similar to how the MCU and Star Wars have developed, intending to introduce spin-off films and TV shows. This vision has been met with resistance from Broccoli, who is said to be concerned about maintaining the integrity of the Bond legacy, reportedly referring to Amazon as "f**ing idiots" during discussions.
The current uncertainty about the future of the franchise is punctuated by the absence of a new script, story, or confirmed lead actor—a rare situation for the iconic series. The public has been left waiting and wondering how the next iteration of Bond will take shape.
Alongside O’Connor, both Theo James and Aaron Taylor-Johnson have experienced fluctuated odds as the race for Bond heats up. James was once highly considered as well, but as O’Connor’s star continues to rise, the competition tightens. Taylor-Johnson, for his part, had been the favorite for several months, with reports claiming Amazon had even offered him the role. Yet with recent developments, his odds have seen considerable changes, with Taylor-Johnson now placed behind O’Connor and James.
This alteration highlights the unpredictability inherent to casting the next Bond, which hasn’t been easy since Craig’s much-praised tenure as 007. With Daniel Craig retiring from the role after delivering five films, fans are eager to see who will carry the iconic character forward.
Many Bond enthusiasts remain hopeful about O’Connor's potential. His past performances have showcased his range and depth as an actor, garnering both acclaim and box-office success. His performance in Challengers*, for example, is said to have generated close to $100 million at the box office, serving as solid evidence of his capability to attract audiences.
With the casting process seemingly fraught with challenges, questions remain around how long it will take for producers to officially name the next Bond, adding to the suspense. The Hollywood Reporter has suggested O’Connor might be named as the official successor by 2025, indicating producers are taking their time to select the right fit for the role.
Market analysts like Lee Phelps from William Hill have similarly commented on the shifting odds, saying, "The search for the next 007 is hotting up and Josh O’Connor has shot to the top of the ‘next James Bond’ market." Phelps mentioned how the odds for O’Connor have shortened significantly, illustrating his increasing popularity among bookmakers and fans alike.
The tension between producers and Amazon, coupled with the fluctuated odds among candidates, creates intrigue around the elusive nature of the next Bond announcement. With actors such as Paul Mescal, Jack Lowden, and James Norton also being discussed, it remains to be seen how the final casting decision will reflect fan desires and the cinematic direction Bond will take.
While O’Connor's rise to the top may have come as a surprise, many fans are rallying behind the notion of this charming, charismatic actor stepping seamlessly from the period dramas and indie films of his past right to the forefront of international espionage.
The Bond franchise has always managed to stay relevant and compelling, adapting to cultural tides, and this current chapter promises to be no different as speculation continues to swirl about the next actor to wear the tuxedo. For now, the eye remains firmly on Josh O’Connor as he leads the race to become the next James Bond.