Gary Oldman said this week that the successor to Daniel Craig has already been chosen — and he put his support behind his Slow Horses co-star, Jack Lowden. The comment, made during an interview with Canada’s Global, adds new momentum to casting talk around the franchise as Amazon MGM Studios prepares the next chapter of the 007 films.
Oldman, who stars opposite Lowden on the spy drama, suggested the decision may be made behind the scenes though not yet public. His remarks stopped short of a formal confirmation, leaving it unclear whether he was pointing to Lowden specifically or to Amazon MGM’s broader selection for the role.
Why this matters now: the 007 casting will shape the tone and international strategy of the franchise under new studio ownership, and any choice — particularly if director Denis Villeneuve remains involved — would signal whether the series will shift toward a younger, grittier lead or retain a more established screen presence.
Amazon MGM Studios has been contacted for comment but has not issued a statement. The report follows earlier industry reporting that auditions and private meetings took place over the summer, with producers and the director notifying shortlisted actors in August.
Key names linked to the role
- Jack Lowden — Scottish actor known for his turn on Slow Horses; supported by co-star Gary Oldman and now widely mentioned in casting conversations.
- Harris Dickinson — previously reported as fitting Amazon MGM’s preferred profile for a modern Bond.
- Callum Turner — another actor circulated in casting lists; his previous roles suggest a polished, physical leading-man appeal.
- Jacob Elordi — name has appeared in earlier coverage as a contender who matches a younger, contemporary direction for 007.
Industry outlets, including Deadline, said this summer that producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman, alongside Villeneuve, had informed certain actors they were on a shortlist. That account framed the casting process as active but tightly controlled, with the studio vetting multiple approaches before announcing a final choice.
Beyond a name, two elements will be watched closely: first, how the casting aligns with Villeneuve’s creative vision if he stays on as director; second, whether Amazon MGM aims to reposition the character for a new franchise era, which could affect tone, marketing and international box-office strategy.
For fans and industry observers, the coming weeks may be decisive. If Oldman’s suggestion is accurate, an official announcement could be imminent; if not, expect continued scrutiny of private auditions and studio meetings until Amazon MGM confirms its plan.
What to watch next: timing of a studio statement, any confirmation from Lowden’s representatives, and whether Villeneuve’s involvement is publicly reaffirmed — each would substantially narrow the picture of Bond’s future.
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Hello, I’m Declan. I share my film reviews and discoveries with you to enrich your moviegoing experience.