The search for the next James Bond has taken another turn, with Josh O’Connor reportedly turning down the role. The actor was considered a leading contender to replace Daniel Craig. However, his plans to take a break in 2027 may conflict with the franchise’s production schedule.
O’Connor’s reported decision left Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, Robert Pattinson, and Nicholas Hoult among the rumored contenders. With no official casting announcement, the search for 007 remains open.
Josh O’Connor reportedly turns down James Bond role amid plans for 2027 acting break
A source told the Daily Mail, “Josh has turned down the Bond role.”
The report followed O’Connor’s comments at a screening of the National Theatre production Golden Boy. Asked whether he would become the next Bond, he replied, “No, no, no. We’ll see but I doubt it.”
He also discussed his upcoming break. “I’m doing something in January, but then yeah, I’m taking some time out,” he said. O’Connor described the attention surrounding the Bond speculation as “extraordinary,” according to Metro.
O’Connor reportedly auditioned in October alongside Turner and Lowden. Earlier reports also claimed that a Golden Boy castmate had suggested he secured the role. However, the latest report casts doubt on those rumors.
Turner remained among the bookmakers’ favorites, with William Hill reportedly offering odds of 11/10. The 36-year-old also reportedly screen-tested at Bray Studios in Berkshire before returning to New York.
He continued filming the romantic comedy One Night Only and shot a Johnnie Walker Blue Label commercial on Sunday. Reports also linked his departure from the film company he co-founded with his wife, Dua Lipa, to his Bond ambitions.
Meanwhile, Pattinson’s odds shortened from 16/1 to 3/1, while O’Connor had previously stood at 5/2. Hoult also reportedly auditioned for the role.
Director Denis Villeneuve joked about revealing Bond’s identity at the LACMA Art and Film Gala. However, he stopped short of naming anyone, joking that producer Amy Pascal might have a heart attack.
Amazon MGM Studios has not confirmed the reported auditions or announced its casting decision. Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is writing Bond 26, with Villeneuve directing.
Producers have suggested that Craig’s successor could be announced by the end of 2026. However, filming dates remain unconfirmed. The upcoming movie will be the first Bond installment developed under Amazon MGM’s creative control.
