New speculation is heating up around the next actor to play James Bond, even though no casting has been confirmed for the long-running spy franchise. Despite a parade of rumored names like Henry Cavill and Fantastic Beasts star Callum Turner, insiders say the Bond team has not yet entered official casting for the new film. Still, one name has recently set off a wave of reports across Hollywood.
Jacob Elordi, who earned an Oscar nomination for his performance in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, is now being linked to the role of 007. Industry outlet Showbiz 411 claims that Bond 26’s expected director Denis Villeneuve and producers at Amazon MGM Studios have “had meetings” with Elordi. The actor, who will next appear with Margot Robbie in Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights, is reportedly being viewed as one of the top contenders.
Another report from World of Reel echoed that claim, citing a “well-placed source” who said Elordi’s name is “front and center” among possible choices. The reports suggest growing momentum behind the Australian actor, though neither the studio nor anyone officially connected to the franchise has confirmed talks. Analysts say the attention signals how significant the next Bond decision will be for Amazon’s control of the iconic brand.
Most likely no casting announcement will occur until after the script for the next film was complete, likely to happen by mid-2026. That explains the recent lull in Bond-related gossip after months of near-continuous speculation. Still, fans and media outlets continue to revisit the question of who will follow Daniel Craig, whose final performance in No Time to Die closed a major chapter in the franchise, and divided the fandom.
Villeneuve, known for Dune and Blade Runner 2049, is said to be focused on shaping a version of Bond that fits his style rather than chasing popularity. That approach could delay the process even more but also increase anticipation. With no official meetings or production details announced, the next James Bond remains one of Hollywood’s best-kept secrets and it looks like, for now, the rumors will keep coming. This guessing game is far from over.
***
English (US) · 