Aaron Pierre is one of many names mentioned who could take on the role of James Bond.Image: keystone
Film News
The search for the next James Bond is officially underway. After Daniel Craig, a new era begins for the cult series – and the expectations for the new 007 are huge.
May 22, 2026, 4:34 p.mMay 22, 2026, 5:05 p.m
Amazon MGM Studios confirmed last week that the search for the new Bond actor has begun. The creative team has already been set with Denis Villeneuve as director and Steven Knight as screenwriter. Now the focus turns to the crucial question: Who should take on the most famous secret agent role in film history in the future?
Bond experts name several qualities that the new 007 must definitely have.
British (or at least almost)
James Bond is considered a British cult figure – this is unlikely to change under Amazon. Although there have already been non-English bonds with the Australian George Lazenby and the Irishman Pierce Brosnan, an American still seems out of the question for many.
The Australian actor Jacob Elordi is still considered a possible candidate. The important thing is less the origin than the ability to credibly embody the style and demeanor of a British gentleman.
Jacob Elordi is Australian – but can imitate a very convincing upper-class British accent.Image: keystone
Even Austin Butler is said to have already ruled out a Bond role – an American Bond would be “sacrilegious”.
“The reason Bond is so popular internationally is precisely because he is not American.”
Austin Butler
The American Austin Butler does not want to become the new James Bond.Image: keystone
Younger
Many observers expect the next Bond to be significantly younger than his predecessors. Amazon wants to build up the character in the long term and specifically appeal to younger viewers.
Therefore, actors under the age of 30 are primarily discussed. Names like Idris Elba or Tom Hardy, on the other hand, are now considered too old for a role that is often played across many films.
«Being James Bond is more than just four or five films. It is a lifelong commitment and one remains an ambassador for the film series forever. Brosnan hung up his tuxedo 25 years ago, but Bond still comes up in every interview.”
Matthew Field
Louis Partridge, Harris Dickinson and David Jonsson are mentioned as possible candidates.
David Jonsson has impressed in films like “Rye Lane” (2023) and “Wasteman” (2025) – and could be a serious contender.Image: keystone
Not too famous
Traditionally, Bond has rarely been cast with absolute megastars. The producers always wanted to prevent the actor’s personality from outshining the character.
This time too, a relatively unknown name could win the race. According to industry reports, British theater actor Tom Francis, among others, is said to have auditioned.
Tom Francis, best known for his stage role in “Sunset Boulevard,” was the first name to emerge from the new round of castingImage: keystone
Well-known stars like Henry Cavill, Tom Holland or Robert Pattinson could have a bad hand for this very reason.
Charming and funny
After the often dark and serious Bond films with Daniel Craig, the series could now become a little lighter and more humorous.
Experts expect the new Bond to exude more charm and relaxedness. A possible candidate is Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who has already impressed with a self-ironic touch in action films.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been the favorite for some time – and would have the necessary charm.Image: keystone
Callum Turner is also mentioned again and again.
Callum Turner has been engaged to British singer Dua Lipa since 2024. Image: keystone
Brutally
Despite all his elegance, Bond remains one thing above all: a dangerous killer. This mixture of charm and toughness has defined the character for decades.
Since Daniel Craig at the latest, physical presence has become increasingly important. The new Bond must be able to fight credibly and radiate violence.
In addition to Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Aaron Pierre is also traded. The actor trains, among other things, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and is considered particularly physically convincing.
Rising star Aaron Pierre has experience in the action genre – which could give him an advantage.Image: keystone
The most important question remains open
But finding a new cast member is only part of the challenge. Many experts see the greater task in redefining James Bond in the first place.
In a digital world full of surveillance, social media and cyber warfare, the question is increasingly being asked: What role does a classic secret agent still have today?
This is exactly what the new Bond era must find a convincing answer to. (mke)