The search for the next James Bond has reportedly narrowed to six actors - and the name sitting at the top of the list is one most audiences have never heard of.
According to a Page Six Hollywood report, screen tests for the still-untitled Bond 26 are set to begin in early September, with director Denis Villeneuve and casting director Nina Gold evaluating the following finalists:
- Jack Barton - reported frontrunner; known for "Heartstopper" and "SAS: Rogue Heroes"
- Jack Lowden - "Slow Horses" star, recently gaining momentum as a contender
- Callum Turner - "Fantastic Beasts," currently starring in "One Night Only"
- Jacob Elordi - "Euphoria," widely rumored for Bond since early 2025
- Paul Mescal - "Gladiator II," currently filming as Paul McCartney in Sam Mendes' Beatles films
- Harris Dickinson - "Triangle of Sadness"
The surprise is Barton. The 31-year-old British actor reportedly emerged as the frontrunner after Gold scoured the UK for a lesser-known face to anchor the franchise's next era. Insiders described him to Page Six as "the one" - ahead of five significantly more recognizable co-finalists.
It wouldn't be the first time Bond producers chose an outsider over a star. Recent castings have often favored actors without the "baggage" of prior fame, letting audiences see the character rather than a familiar celebrity. Former Bond casting director Debbie McWilliams echoed that philosophy in a June interview, saying the role requires someone who "retains a total enigma."
No release date has been confirmed, though fall 2028 is the widely expected target. Amazon MGM has not commented publicly on any names on the list.
Whoever dons the tuxedo will inherit a character built, at its core, on themes many faith audiences quietly relate to - duty, sacrifice, and the cost of doing what's right even when it isn't easy.
Screen tests begin in September.
