Actor Josh O’Connor has played down speculation that he could become the next James Bond, revealing plans to take a break from work in 2027.
The actor, known for his roles in The Crown and Challengers, was asked about the possibility of succeeding Daniel Craig as the iconic British secret agent during a screening of the National Theatre production of Golden Boy.
Responding to the rumours, O’Connor said: “No, no, no. We’ll see but I doubt it.”
He explained that he had one project scheduled for January before taking some time away from work.
“I’m doing something in January, but then yeah, I’m taking some time out,” he added.
Actor Says Bond Speculation Is an Honour
Despite distancing himself from the casting speculation, O’Connor acknowledged that being considered for such a prestigious role was an extraordinary experience.
Speaking to the BBC, he described the possibility of being associated with the character as a moment that was difficult to believe.
“It’s incredibly, like, a bizarre pinch me moment. Of even being uttered in that same sentence and being considered for something like that,” he said.
“It is extraordinary, so I’m very honoured but I’m afraid there’s nothing to say beyond that.”
O’Connor recently completed a 60-show run as the lead performer in Golden Boy at the Almeida Theatre in Islington, London.
Jack Lowden Emerges as Betting Favourite
Meanwhile, Slow Horses actor Jack Lowden has moved ahead of other contenders in the race to become the next 007.
According to the latest odds from Ladbrokes, Lowden is the leading candidate, with Callum Turner placed second at 11/4. O’Connor is further behind at 8/1.
Lowden, 36, recently addressed reports describing him as the clear favourite for the role during an interview with GQ Hype.
Describing the attention as flattering, he said he did not intend to contribute to the speculation surrounding the casting process.
“It’s all very flattering. It’s nice to be mentioned – for any role – and I’m just not really going to add to the noise…”
He also suggested that appearing in a suit could explain why actors were frequently linked to the role.
“As a young male actor, generally, the minute you’re not playing a zany artist type, the minute you’re in a suit, people fling it at you,” he said.
Lowden also discussed his ambitions beyond acting, indicating that he was interested in developing projects of his own.
“I don’t think it’s [his future career] in acting, really.
I think it’s in making something of my own,” he added.
Callum Turner Leaves Film Production Company
Turner, another prominent contender for the Bond role, has also attracted attention after stepping down as a director of Twentytwo Films Ltd, the production company he established with his wife, singer Dua Lipa.
The couple founded the company last August, holding equal shares and intending to develop film and television projects along the lines of Margot Robbie’s production company, LuckyChap.
Turner’s departure from the company’s directorship has prompted further attention amid reports that he is among the leading candidates for the 007 role.
Bond Casting Process Nears Completion
Amazon MGM Studios is expected to select the next James Bond by December, allowing production on the next film to begin in 2027.
Director Denis Villeneuve, who is overseeing the upcoming instalment, and studio executives confirmed in May that the casting process was underway.
Bond producer Amy Pascal indicated in August that the search was approaching its conclusion, suggesting that an announcement could come before the end of the year.
“We are being really, really methodical.
Having worked with Barbara Broccoli at the studio, I mean, Daniel Craig is a hard act to follow,” Pascal said.
She added that the next actor would need to bring something different and exciting to the character.
Other actors previously linked to the role include Harris Dickinson, known for The King’s Man, and Jack Barton, who appeared in SAS: Rogue Heroes.
Six Actors Have Played James Bond in Official Film Series
The next casting decision will determine who succeeds Daniel Craig, whose final appearance as Bond came after a run in the official film franchise.
Only six actors have played Ian Fleming’s British Secret Service agent in the official film series: Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Craig.
