The search for Daniel Craig’s successor as James Bond appears to be entering its final stretch, with director Denis Villeneuve offering a fresh update on the casting process.
The filmmaker says the team is moving quickly to select the next 007, although he has yet to reveal who will take on the iconic role, reports Deadline.
Speaking to GQ, Villeneuve was asked whether the next Bond had already been cast. He replied: “It’s… in the process, in the process. We’re pushing the gas.”
The director also played along when asked to blink once for Robert Pattinson and twice for Callum Turner. Covering his eyes with a smile, he responded: “That’s tough not to blink.”
The latest remarks have fuelled speculation that an announcement could be approaching.
According to Deadline, five actors have reportedly taken part in recent screen tests: Robert Pattinson, Nicholas Hoult, Jack Lowden, Josh O’Connor and Callum Turner. However, neither the studio nor the filmmakers have confirmed the final shortlist.
The report also suggests that a decision could come by the end of November, potentially before the US Thanksgiving holiday on 26 November. This remains an expectation rather than an officially confirmed announcement date.
Villeneuve has previously spoken positively about the selection process. At the 2026 LACMA Art+Film Gala, he told Variety that he was having a “great time” screening actors for the role.
He also jokingly teased the audience by pretending to reveal the next Bond’s identity before stopping himself, citing producer Amy Pascal’s likely reaction.
The upcoming film will mark the 26th instalment in the long-running spy franchise and the first since Craig’s final appearance in ‘No Time to Die’ (2021). Villeneuve will direct, while ‘Peaky Blinders’ creator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay.
Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing the project for Amazon MGM Studios.
Whoever secures the role will inherit one of cinema’s most recognisable characters, previously portrayed by actors including Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan and Craig.
