James Bond auditions officially began, and the search for Daniel Craig’s replacement has entered the “actually doing something” phase after years of speculation, betting pools, and Twitter campaigns for Idris Elba. Amazon MGM Studios confirmed that casting director Nina Gold—who found Daisy Ridley for Star Wars and populated Westeros for Game of Thrones—is leading the hunt for the next 007.
James Bond auditions are happening now, which means somewhere in London, a bunch of British actors in their thirties are practicing their smolder in mirrors and wondering if they can convincingly order a vodka martini. The studio promises they’re taking their time, which is Hollywood speak for “we have no idea who we want and we’re panicking.”
Denis Villeneuve directs the next installment with a script from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight. That’s a heavyweight team for a franchise that has survived six different actors over sixty years. James Bond auditions under this kind of pressure would make me sweat through my tuxedo, but professional actors are built different.
Rumored names include Jacob Elordi, Callum Turner, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and basically every British actor under forty who looks good holding a gun. James Bond auditions will likely continue for months before anyone gets the official nod. The next 007 needs to be charming, dangerous, and able to carry a franchise for at least three films. No pressure.
Place your bets—James Bond auditions are underway, and the next spy legend will be revealed when the time is right.
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