Callum Turner’s 007 Rumors Heat Up as Bond Casting Chatter Reaches a Fever Pitch

Daniel Craig’s five-film run ended with 2021’s ‘No Time to Die’, which did something the previous 24 official Bond films never dared to do: kill James Bond. Ever since, the question of who could possibly pick up the Walther PPK has hovered over Hollywood like a permanent cloud of cigarette smoke.

The wait has been long, and the speculation has been relentless. Production on the next James Bond film is expected to kick off in 2027, with a release planned for 2028, making it the first Bond movie made since Amazon gained full control of the franchise. According to producer Amy Pascal, the new 007 will be cast by the end of 2026.

Now, a fresh report suggests the search may be over. Showbiz 411’s Roger Friedman reported that word on the street is that Callum Turner is the next James Bond. ComicBook.com amplified the claim on X, noting that Turner has reportedly been cast, and that the post drew more than 315,000 views within hours.

Friedman’s track record is a big reason the rumor is being taken seriously. He broke the news of Daniel Craig’s Bond casting more than 20 years ago. Still, it is worth remembering that this is a report rather than an official announcement.

The timing lines up with a busy few days of Bond chatter. Screen tests for the next Bond reportedly took place at Bray Studios in Berkshire over the Oct. 30 weekend, with Turner among the actors said to have auditioned. Between 3 and 5 actors were reportedly called in to audition.

Turner’s off-screen moves have added fuel to the fire. According to The Sun, Turner, 36, resigned as a director of Twentytwo Films Ltd, the production company he established with Dua Lipa in August 2025. The departure prompted speculation that he could be clearing his plate for the demanding responsibilities of the Bond franchise.

There is a caveat, though. Parade points out that the resignation isn’t a newly announced career move, and there is no confirmed connection between his departure from the company and the James Bond casting process. In other words, the dots are tempting to connect, but nobody has officially drawn the line.

This is also not the first time Turner’s name has been floated. Back in January, The Daily Mail reported Turner was telling friends he had the part. Last December, he became the bookmakers’ hot favorite, with UK bookmaker Coral giving him 7-4 odds, ahead of Aaron Taylor-Johnson at 3-1 and Henry Cavill at 6-1.

Competition has not exactly vanished, either. Jack Lowden and Josh O’Connor are also reportedly among the actors being considered, although no casting decision has been announced. Bookmakers still had Lowden as the favorite going into the weekend, with Turner right behind him.

Turner would arrive with a résumé that suits the part. He is known for his roles in ‘Masters of the Air’ and the ‘Fantastic Beasts’ films. His varied filmography could make him an interesting choice, particularly with Denis Villeneuve directing ‘Bond 26’.

Then there is the Dua Lipa factor. Turner may be the first James Bond to come with his own pre-established Bond girl, as his wife, pop superstar Dua Lipa, could record the theme song for ‘Bond 26’. That is a storyline even a franchise as theatrical as 007 might struggle to script.

For now, the safest read is cautious optimism. His casting as the next James Bond has not been officially confirmed. With the end of 2026 approaching and Amazon MGM Studios seemingly closing in, fans may not have to wait much longer to find out whether Turner is truly the man behind the tuxedo.