Bond final screen tests begin today as Deadline names Lowden, Turner and O'Connor

The search for the next James Bond is entering its decisive phase. Deadline reported on Thursday that final screen tests for the 007 role could begin in London as early as Friday, 23 October, and continue into next week. (https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/news/bond-26-final-screen-tests-expected-to-begin-on-friday.htm)

According to the report, at least four actors have been invited to test, and Deadline’s sources name three of them: Jack Lowden, Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor. The fourth remains unidentified, and the names have not been confirmed — Amazon MGM Studios has not commented on the report. (https://www.radiotimes.com/movies/james-bond-final-screen-tests-next-week-newsupdate/)

The Hollywood Reporter independently corroborated the report, naming Lowden and Turner as in the mix and stating that tests take place in London this weekend. (https://people.com/jacob-elordi-won-t-screen-test-for-james-bond-as-callum-turner-and-jack-lowden-make-the-cut-reports-12188414)

Lowden, 36, stars in Apple TV’s Slow Horses alongside Gary Oldman and appeared in Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk. Turner, 36, starred in Apple TV’s Masters of the Air and the Fantastic Beasts films. O’Connor earned acclaim for The Crown and Challengers.

The Hollywood Reporter also states that Jacob Elordi and Jack O’Connell — both long the subject of speculation — are not among those testing. The tests are said to assess stunts, camera presence and dialogue.

Producer Amy Pascal has said of the casting decision: “I would say the end of the year is a good bet.” Denis Villeneuve is directing, with Steven Knight writing the screenplay, and Amazon MGM Studios has held full creative control of the franchise since 2025.