The search for the new James Bond is getting serious: Director Denis Villeneuve (58) and the producers of the next 007 film have apparently begun informing selected actors about the next casting round. This is reported by the US industry portal "Deadline", citing insiders. Villeneuve is said to have personally called the candidates.

According to the report, the crucial auditions are scheduled for August. "Deadline" has not yet been able to confirm any specific names. It's also unclear how many actors will ultimately audition: One source expects five to seven candidates, while others speak of a number of up to 20 people.

Casting director Nina Gold had already conducted numerous meetings in recent weeks. However, according to insiders, these were primarily with lesser-known names - to check whether anyone should be added to the list of more prominent candidates. Gold finalized her deal for the film in April.

These names are being discussed

Who is considered the favorite remains speculation. However, according to "Deadline", actors such as Harris Dickinson, Callum Turner, and Jacob Elordi fit the profile the filmmakers are looking for in this round. None of the names have been confirmed so far.

The deliberate approach is intentional: Since Amazon MGM Studios took full creative control of the franchise this year, the studio has been proceeding with particular thoroughness in casting behind the camera. First, Amy Pascal and David Heyman were hired as producers in spring 2025. After discussions with several directors, the choice ultimately fell on Villeneuve.

Bond star expected to be determined by year's end

The studio took the same approach last summer with the screenplay, which is being written by Steven Knight. Only after that did the search for the lead actor move into focus. Amazon MGM declined to comment when contacted by "Deadline".

So patience will likely still be required until the casting marathon in August. However, the timeline fits with the goal of finding the new 007 by the end of the year - so that filming can begin sometime in 2027.