Pierce Brosnan has all but endorsed Callum Turner as the next James Bond, while rival contenders Josh O’Connor and Jack Lowden play down a casting race that Amazon MGM Studios has not officially confirmed. Brosnan, 73, who played 007 in four films between 1995 and 2002, discussed the search in an interview with Vanity Fair published Tuesday. He called himself “just an audience member now” and said he admires every actor on the reported shortlist.
He singled out Turner, who played his son in the 2017 drama “The Only Living Boy in New York.” Turner, Brosnan said, is “so strong.” He also noted that all the candidates have presence on camera and staying power as actors, and wished whoever wins strength and courage. Brosnan stopped short of a formal vote. He said it was hard to predict who would land the part and that he looks forward to the announcement.
The reported field has narrowed in recent weeks. The Hollywood Reporter has said Turner and Lowden, the “Slow Horses” star, were the two finalists, with at least four screen-test offers extended. Jacob Elordi, once rumored to be in contention, is no longer in the running, according to that outlet, and Jack O’Connell was reportedly not among the finalists. Turner has led bookmakers’ odds since late last year.
O’Connor, the 36-year-old “Crown” actor, was among those expected to test. He told the BBC on Tuesday that being mentioned alongside the others is “extraordinary” and called it a “pinch-me moment.” He said he had nothing to add. Lowden, also 36, told British GQ the speculation is “very flattering” and said he will not add to the noise.
None of the actors has confirmed an audition, and the studio has made no announcement. The film will reboot the series after Daniel Craig’s farewell in 2021’s “No Time to Die.” Denis Villeneuve is set to direct from a script by Steven Knight, the creator of “Peaky Blinders.” Reports from last year put production at 2027 with a release in 2028.
The attention reflects how much a Bond casting shapes a franchise’s identity. Brosnan’s own tenure, which began with “GoldenEye,” revived the series after a six-year gap. Whoever succeeds Craig will inherit the first Bond film developed under Amazon’s full control.
