Callum Turner and Jack Lowden appear to be in contention for the next James Bond, as Amazon MGM Studiosmoves towards final screen tests for its new 007.

The tests are expected to take place over the coming week, potentially beginning as early as October 23. The precise audition line-up remains unclear, and neither actor’s participation has been confirmed.

With Denis Villeneuve directing the next film and Nina Gold leading casting, the search is approaching a consequential stage in shaping the franchise’s next chapter.

Denis Villeneuve prepares to introduce a new 007

The choice of leading actor will establish the central partnership behind Villeneuve’s Bond film.

Gold is overseeing the audition process, while the studio has yet to give an official date for announcing who will take the role. The expectation is that the next Bond will be named before the end of 2026.

For now, the distinction between a contender and a confirmed casting remains important. Turner and Lowden are among the names associated with the search, but the final tests — and their participants — remain closely guarded.

Representatives for both actors and Amazon MGM had not commented on the latest developments at the time of publication.

Jack Lowden’s name gains momentum

Lowden has become an increasingly prominent figure in the Bond conversation, with attention intensifying after comments from his Slow Horses co-star Gary Oldman.

Oldman appeared to suggest that the Scottish actor had reached the shortlist, prompting further speculation about his prospects.

Lowden’s wife, Saoirse Ronan, subsequently addressed the attention, saying Bond was “not really a subject that’s coming up in our house.”

Her response offered little indication of where the casting process stood, leaving Lowden’s possible involvement unresolved as the final auditions approach.

Callum Turner has kept his answer brief

Turner was already attracting attention as a potential Bond earlier this year.

During the Berlin Film Festival in February, while promoting Rosebush Pruning, the British actor was asked directly about the rumours.

“It’s very early for that question,” he said. “I’m not going to comment on it.”

That response has remained part of the conversation around his candidacy. The latest developments place him alongside Lowden among the names to watch, while stopping short of confirming either actor for the final tests.

The next stage now belongs to the audition room, where the search for Villeneuve’s leading man moves closer to a decision.