James Bond Screen Tests Underway for Four Final Candidates

Amazon MGM Studios is conducting final screen tests this weekend for the next actor to play James Bond, with at least three confirmed finalists: Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and Josh O'Connor. A fourth candidate has also been offered a screen test, though their identity remains unconfirmed. According to reports, the auditions include three components: stunts, camera presence, and dialogue. Actors Jack O'Connell and Jacob Elordi are not participating, despite earlier speculation.

Denis Villeneuve, known for directing the Dune films, will helm the next Bond film for Amazon MGM Studios, which acquired creative control of the franchise in February 2025 as part of its broader purchase of MGM. Screenwriter Steven Knight, who created the Peaky Blinders television series, is writing the screenplay, with a draft reportedly completed in September. Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman are overseeing the project, alongside executive producer Tanya Lapointe.

The screen tests were originally scheduled for early October but were delayed due to scheduling conflicts. Industry sources indicate a casting announcement could come before the end of 2026, though no official timeline has been confirmed. This marks the first full Bond screen test process in over 20 years; the last occurred in 2005 before Daniel Craig was cast. Bookmakers currently favor Lowden at approximately 62 percent odds, followed by Turner at 25 percent and O'Connor at 13 percent.

Amazon MGM Studios has maintained discretion about the casting process. In a statement, the company said: "The search for the next James Bond is under way. While we don't plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we're excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right." Producer Amy Pascal previously indicated that an announcement by year's end was "a good bet," while emphasizing the team's methodical approach given the responsibility of following Daniel Craig's 15-year tenure in the role.

Villeneuve has described his interest in the project as a departure from the Dune franchise. "I want to make sure that I will be severe with the material. That I will not be complacent," he told Empire magazine. The next Bond film is positioned for release in 2028. Reports also indicate that House of the Dragon actor Ewan Mitchell is in contention for the villain role.