Pierce Brosnan has expressed support for Callum Turner to become the next James Bond, as speculation continues over who will replace Daniel Craig in the long-running film franchise.
Turner, 36, is reportedly among three actors who have reached the final shortlist for the role, with screen tests taking place last month.
Brosnan, who played the British secret agent in four films, said he was looking forward to the announcement and praised the actors being considered.
Speaking to Vanity Fair, he said: “Oh, I’m just an audience member now. I’m just the man in the street who is eager to see who is going to play this epic role of cinematic history. All the men who are on the list now are actors I admire.”
He also confirmed that he had worked with Turner, adding that the shortlisted actors had the voice, physique and screen presence required for the part.
Brosnan Wishes Next 007 Actor Success
Asked whether he had advice for whoever takes over the role, Brosnan said he hoped the successful candidate would approach the responsibility with confidence and determination.
“Whoever plays the role, I wish him the very best of life and strength and courage,” he said.
He added that he was waiting for the announcement and the celebrations surrounding the next actor to portray Bond.
Brosnan said all the contenders had the potential to bring their own qualities to the character and described them as actors with longevity.
Jack Lowden Emerges as Betting Favourite
While Brosnan has publicly backed Turner, Slow Horses actor Jack Lowden has emerged as the leading contender in betting markets.
Lowden’s co-star Gary Oldman recently fuelled speculation by suggesting that the Scottish actor had already been selected, although an official announcement had not been made.
Oldman said he understood that a decision had been reached and expressed hope that Lowden would get the role.
Lowden, however, has avoided adding to the speculation.
Speaking to GQ Hype, he described the rumours as flattering but said he did not intend to contribute to the growing discussion.
He also praised Oldman for his comments, describing him as a sweetheart.
Lowden said young male actors were frequently linked to Bond whenever they appeared in formal clothing rather than playing more unconventional characters.
Final Screen Tests Took Place at Bray Studios
The latest round of auditions reportedly took place at Bray Studios in Berkshire last month.
Lowden, Turner and a third unnamed actor were said to have completed final screen tests as the casting process approached its conclusion.
The identity of the mystery contender has prompted speculation among Bond fans, with some suggesting that actor Joe Alwyn could be the third person involved.
Alwyn has appeared in productions including Conversations With Friends, The Brutalist and Hamnet. Fans have discussed his possible involvement on social media, although no confirmation has been provided.
Betting Markets Put Turner Behind Lowden
Lowden has been given odds of 8/11 to secure the role, while Turner is priced at 2/1.
Other potential contenders have been assigned odds of 16/1.
A spokesperson for Ladbrokes said betting activity had increasingly favoured Lowden as the casting process reached its final stages.
The spokesperson described Turner as Lowden’s main challenger, adding that recent speculation had contributed to support for the Scottish actor.
Other names previously linked with the role include English actor Josh O’Connor and Australian star Jacob Elordi, 29, who is believed to have missed out.
Producers Expect Casting Decision Before the End of the Year
Bond producer Amy Pascal said in August that the casting announcement could be made before the end of the year.
She explained that the production team was taking a careful approach to choosing Craig’s successor, given the expectations surrounding the next film.
Pascal said the new Bond would need to bring something distinctive and exciting to the franchise.
An announcement by December would allow Amazon MGM Studios to begin filming the next instalment in 2027.
Director Denis Villeneuve, known for Dune, and Amazon announced in May that the casting process had begun.
Six Actors Have Played Bond in the Official Film Series
The next casting decision will determine who becomes the seventh actor to portray Ian Fleming’s British Secret Service agent in the official film series.
The role has previously been played by Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig.
Craig’s departure has prompted widespread speculation about his successor, with Lowden and Turner among the names attracting the most attention.
For now, the producers have not publicly confirmed who will take over the role.
