The Next 007: Casting the Next James Bond After Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig’s Bond era is long over, but the search for his successor remains a mystery. Even if you strapped a Bond producer to a table and aimed a laser at them, they’d likely stay silent — such is the secrecy of the 007 casting process.

Idris Elba was once a frontrunner but has ruled himself out. Meanwhile, fresh names like Theo James, Callum Turner, and Damson Idris have gained traction. However, the hottest name in the mix right now is Aaron Taylor-Johnson, with persistent rumors suggesting he’s already been offered the role. While not an obvious choice, Craig himself faced skepticism when he was cast in 2005, so an unexpected pick might just surprise us.

Here are some of the contenders:

Daniel Kaluuya

Jon Kopaloff

A bold, modern choice, Kaluuya’s charm and depth could bring a fresh twist to Bond. He’s hinted he’d prefer playing a villain, and his commitments as a writer-director may deter him, but a reluctant Bond can sometimes be the best kind.

Joe Alwyn

Emma McIntyre

Alwyn’s understated presence and brooding intensity fit the Bond mold. He has the suaveness for a covert mission — but does he have the grit for the action? That remains to be seen.

Joseph Quinn

Neil Mockford

With Stranger Things, Gladiator 2, and Fantastic Four under his belt, Quinn is quickly becoming a major star. He’s young, charismatic, and could carry the franchise for years — though his Marvel commitments might be a hurdle.

Eddie Redmayne

Anadolu

Already an Oscar-winning household name, Redmayne’s recent role in The Day of the Jackal showcased his espionage chops. However, at 42, he may be outside the preferred age range for a long-term Bond commitment.

As Bond 26 inches closer, the big question remains: Who will don the tux and take up the Walther PPK next? Time will tell.