It was all the way back in 2021 that Daniel Craig gave his final performance as the tuxedo-wearing, Aston Martin-driving James Bond, and discussion is rampant as to who is next in line. Now, the long-awaited decision over who will play the next 007 appears to be reaching its end.
Recent reports suggest there is now a shortlist for the role, and it includes a surprising name. While Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal, and Harris Dickinson have all made the list, it is the inclusion of Jack Barton that has shocked fans, since up to this point he has not appeared among the favorites at all.
“appeared in popular TV series such as Heartstopper and SAS Rogue Heroes”
Barton, who has appeared in popular TV series such as Heartstopper and SAS Rogue Heroes, is reportedly one of the finalists to play the new Bond. Not only that, but the lesser-known British actor is supposedly the frontrunner, if reports are to be believed.
If the 31-year-old is chosen, it would align with the opinion of Debbie McWilliams, the former Bond Casting Director. McWilliams, who was in charge of casting both Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, said that a Bond actor should not be "too well known" so that the spy "retains a total enigma." She ruled out Turner, who just recently married pop star Dua Lipa, for this reason, as well as Elordi and Dickinson.
Barton is best known for playing David Nelson in Heartstopper, and had a small role in Poor Things. He also voiced a character in Elden Ring.
Turner was the most recent favorite to secure the role before news of the shortlist broke, priced at 36% with Kalshi just last week. He surpassed Lowden, who shot into the top spot himself prior after UK TV host Richard Osman claimed he had information suggesting the Slow Horses star was being "strongly considered."
Development of the 26th edition of James Bond is supposedly occurring behind the scenes. Amazon has secured Dune Director Denis Villeneuve to direct the upcoming film, and the industry expects a final announcement of the cast at some time in the near future. Screen tests for the actors on the call list will supposedly begin early September.