The search for the next James Bond may be nearing its end, with Callum Turner emerging as a leading candidate to take on the iconic role. Since Daniel Craig's departure in 2021 after "No Time To Die," speculation has been rife about who will be the next 007.
Turner, known for his roles in the "Fantastic Beasts" franchise and the recent romantic comedy "Eternity," has seen his odds of becoming Bond slashed by bookmakers following a surge of bets in the last 24 hours. According to Coral, Turner is now the "red-hot favorite" for the role. John Hill of Coral stated, "We've been knocked over with support for Callum Turner in our 'next James Bond' betting over the past 24 hours". This surge has moved him ahead of other contenders who have been in the mix for some time.
Other actors who have been considered for the role include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Theo James, James Norton, and Martin Compston. Henry Cavill, Anthony Boyle, Harris Dickinson, and Jack Lowden have also been mentioned as possibilities. Taylor-Johnson and James remain strong contenders, with Cavill not far behind.
Several factors may be contributing to Turner's rise as a frontrunner. Some speculate that his recent holiday with his fiancée, singer Dua Lipa, at Ian Fleming's former estate in Oracabessa Bay, Jamaica, may have influenced the odds. Moreover, Turner's engagement to Dua Lipa has led to speculation that she may record the theme song for the next Bond film. Coral notes that Dua Lipa is odds-on to sing the soundtrack, potentially making them a "power couple" within the franchise.
The next James Bond film is shrouded in secrecy, but Denis Villeneuve is slated to direct, with Steven Knight of "Peaky Blinders" penning the script. The film will be the first Bond movie made since Amazon MGM Studios took over the franchise. Amazon, along with longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, will form a joint venture to manage the intellectual property rights. While Amazon MGM Studios will have creative control, Broccoli and Wilson will remain co-owners of the series.
Former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan has dismissed rumors of his return to the role, stating that it is "another man's job". The next actor to take on the role will have big shoes to fill, following Daniel Craig's successful tenure as 007.
With the director and screenwriter in place, the focus remains on who will be the next James Bond. While Callum Turner has emerged as a strong contender, the final decision remains with Amazon MGM Studios and the Bond producers. The world eagerly awaits the announcement of the next actor to take on the mantle of the iconic British spy.
