The global quest to find the seventh actor to portray James Bond is nearing its conclusion, with industry insiders revealing the names of some key hopefuls. According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline, corroborated by French outlet Ecranlarge, a select group of four to five actors will undergo rigorous screen tests in London starting this Friday.

Among the names circulating as top contenders are Jack Lowden, known for his roles in Christopher Nolan's Dunkirk and the acclaimed series Slow Horses; Callum Turner, who recently garnered praise for his performance in Masters of the Air and appeared in Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore; and Josh O'Connor, widely recognized for his Emmy-winning portrayal of Prince Charles in The Crown and his work in Challengers.

However, some fan favorites and widely speculated candidates will not be moving forward. The Hollywood Reporter specifically noted that Jacob Elordi (known for Euphoria and Frankenstein) and Jack O’Connell (Sinners, 28 Years Later: The Temple of the Dead) are not among the final group invited for tests.

This casting decision is particularly significant as it marks the first James Bond film to be developed under Amazon's ownership of MGM, promising a fresh direction for the iconic espionage franchise. The stakes are incredibly high for the role, considered one of the most coveted in contemporary cinema.

Jack Lowden dans Orgueil et Préjugés

The screen tests are expected to evaluate not only acting prowess in dialogue scenes but also physical capabilities for stunts and overall screen presence—qualities essential for the suave secret agent. Historically, these tests have been elaborate affairs, often involving full production teams.

Callum Turner dans Juste pour une nuit

Looking ahead, the 26th installment of the Bond saga already has a formidable creative team attached. Critically acclaimed screenwriter Steven Knight, known for Peaky Blinders and Eastern Promises, is penning the script. Notably, Knight has a prior working relationship with Josh O’Connor, who had a small role in Peaky Blinders. Directing duties will fall to visionary filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, who is set to transition from the sands of Arrakis after his work on the Dune franchise to the world of international espionage.

Josh O’Connor dans Disclosure Day

With the final selection imminent, anticipation for the new era of James Bond is reaching a fever pitch.