Has the new James Bond finally been found? Over the past 24 hours or so, all signs have started pointing to One Night Only star Callum Turner donning 007's iconic tuxedo in Denis Villeneuve's take on the iconic Ian Fleming creation.
That's largely based on social media chatter about Turner stepping down as a director of Twentytwo Films, a production company he launched with his wife Dua Lipa last summer. However, it's since been confirmed that the actor parted ways with the label last December, so this isn't a new move on his part signalling his landing a major role in the long-running franchise.
Still, whatever it's worth, Showbiz411's Roger Friedman, who was among the first to report on Daniel Craig's casting as Bond in the early 2000s, is going all in on Callum nabbing the coveted part.
"Word on the street is that Callum Turner is the next James Bond. He’s tall, but not too tall. He can act, but not too much," the gossip site shared (via ActioNewz.com). "Director Denis Villeneuve can shape him up. My take: Callum’s wife, Dua Lipa, sings the Bond theme song. Of course. If he’s Bond, why would they get another singer? Maybe Elton John can join her?"
Screen tests took place last month, and at least four test offers have gone out. At the time, it was said that Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), Callum Turner (One Night Only), and Josh O'Connor (Challengers) were all in the running.
Up to five actors could be in the mix to play Bond based on reporting from the trades. While Jack O'Connell (Sinners) was rumoured to be among them, that's not the case. As for Frankenstein star Jacob Elordi, he's also not testing, despite recent reports to the contrary.
While there's speculation that an official announcement will be made soon, Amazon won't comment and has repeatedly pointed inquisitive reporters to its previous statement: "The search for the next James Bond is underway. 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."
Nina Gold (Game of Thrones) has been tapped as casting director, with Denis Villeneuve (Dune) set to direct the movie from a script by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders). David Heyman and Amy Pascal are the franchise's new producers, taking over from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson after they stepped aside.
A release date has not been announced for James Bond 26, but the movie seems to be taking shape. Stay tuned for updates as we have them.