The search for the next James Bond has entered a critical phase, with a new frontrunner emerging as the bookmakers' favourite to succeed Daniel Craig. Over three years since Craig's final outing in No Time to Die, speculation is finally crystallising around a leading candidate.
The New Frontrunner for 007
According to the latest odds from major UK bookmakers, actor Callum Turner is now the clear favourite to take on the iconic role. Paddy Power lists the 35-year-old as the odds-on favourite at 5/6, placing him ahead of other rumoured contenders.
A spokesperson for Paddy Power stated: 'We've been waiting years for any white smoke to emerge from M's office... but now we have a clear favourite in the betting market. Callum Turner might be wise to get himself measured up with a top-quality tailor for that famous 007 tux!'
This prediction is supported by Ladbrokes and William Hill, who also report Turner leading their markets. Ladbrokes' Alex Apati noted that Turner enters 2026 as the stand-out favourite, while William Hill's Lee Phelps suggested there is a high chance the next Bond will be confirmed this year.
A Shifting Landscape for the Franchise
The casting process is unfolding against a backdrop of significant change for the Bond franchise. Earlier in 2025, it was announced that Amazon MGM Studios had gained full creative control, with long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson stepping down.
Furthermore, acclaimed Canadian director Denis Villeneuve, known for the Dune series, has been confirmed to helm the next film, which is expected to go into production in 2026. Villeneuve has spoken of the 'massive responsibility' he feels towards the franchise, having grown up a die-hard Bond fan.
Despite the rumours, both Amazon and Villeneuve have remained tight-lipped on casting. A report from Deadline suggested the director is seeking a man, a Brit, and an actor who is relatively unknown, a criteria that could upend the current betting favourites.
Who Else is in the Running?
The race to become 007 has seen many names floated over the years. Currently, Turner's closest competitors in the betting are Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Anthony Boyle, both at 4/1. They are followed by Theo James (6/1) and Leo Suter (7/1).
Other notable, albeit longer-shot, names include Tom Holland (20/1), James Norton (25/1), and Paul Mescal (40/1). Some previously rumoured contenders have ruled themselves out. Idris Elba has previously dismissed the speculation, while James Norton recently suggested he was 'too old' at 40, valuing his current privacy.
Theo James also expressed reservations, stating he believed there were 'better people for the job' and that taking the role would be 'terrifying' and life-changing.
Who is Callum Turner?
Turner began his career as a fashion model before transitioning to acting. He is best known for playing Theseus Scamander in the Fantastic Beasts film series and for his leading role in the Apple TV+ mini-series Masters of the Air.
His other credits include The Capture, The Last Letter from Your Lover, and The Boys in the Boat. His upcoming projects include the sci-fi series Neuromancer. In 2025, he also announced his engagement to pop star Dua Lipa.
In an earlier analysis, Metro described Turner as being in the 'sweet spot' of celebrity: recognisable but not a massive star, with an air of mystery that suits Bond. The piece argued that previous Bonds were often established but not A-list at the time of casting, a mould Turner fits.
The Legacy of 007
Since the character's big-screen debut in 1962's Dr. No, seven actors have officially portrayed James Bond: Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig.
Craig's tenure, which began with 2006's Casino Royale, concluded with his character's death in 2021's No Time to Die. While Lashana Lynch's character briefly held the 007 title in that film, producer Barbara Broccoli has been clear that James Bond himself will remain male, though he can be of any ethnicity.
As the film industry and fans eagerly await an official announcement, all eyes are on Callum Turner and whether he will indeed be the next actor to deliver that famous line: 'Bond. James Bond.'
