James Bond search heats up as auditions begin

007 bosses have reportedly narrowed down their shortlist of actors for the next James Bond auditions.

James Bond bosses have reportedly narrowed down their shortlist of actors for the next round of auditions.
Director Denis Villeneuve and producers at Amazon MGM Studios are on the hunt for the next 007 to take over from Daniel Craig, with speculation suggesting names like Harris Dickinson, Callum Turner and Jacob Elordi could be among those in the running.
According to Deadline, Villeneuve and producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman have started informing talent if they have made it through to the next round, with auditions expected later this summer. A source told the outlet that the next batch of auditions is likely to take place in August, with the director reportedly calling some actors directly.
No names have been officially confirmed. Some insiders claim between five and seven actors will be tested later this summer, while others suggest the number could be in the teens.
Variety has reported that Amazon MGM bosses have brought in star casting agent Nina Gold, known for her work on the Star Wars franchise as well as Les Miserables and The Martian, to help lead the search for the next Bond.
Everyone involved in the process is remaining tightlipped about who could take over the role following Daniel Craig’s final appearance in 2021’s No Time to Die, which depicted the spy’s death.
Amazon MGM Studios confirmed last month that the search to find the new Bond was officially underway, saying in a statement that while they would not be commenting on specific details during the casting process, they were excited to share more news with fans as soon as the time was right.