Slow Horses star Jack Lowden has responded to widespread speculation about his potential casting as the next James Bond, describing the rumours as "flattering" while declining to confirm whether he is undergoing auditions for the role. According to BBC News, the 36-year-old actor, who grew up in Oxton in the Scottish Borders, is among several contenders being considered to replace Daniel Craig in the iconic spy franchise.
Lowden is reportedly competing for the role alongside Callum Turner and Josh O'Connor. Variety reported that Amazon MGM was preparing final screen tests, with all three actors among those invited to participate. Craig held the role for 15 years, beginning with Casino Royale in 2006 and concluding with No Time To Die in 2021.
When asked about the speculation during an interview with GQ Hype, Lowden remained measured in his response.
"On this… it's all very flattering,"he said.
"It's nice to be mentioned – for any role – and I'm just not really going to add to the noise."
What did his co-star say?
Gary Oldman, Lowden's colleague on Slow Horses, made headlines last month by claiming that producers had already selected the next Bond, though the announcement had not yet been made public. Speaking to Canada's Global, Oldman stated:
"It's been rumoured that he's on the shortlist. We're going to find out pretty soon, aren't we? Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack."
Oldman later clarified his remarks during an appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival, explaining that he had only heard a rumour about producers selecting someone from the shortlist rather than possessing confirmed knowledge of the casting decision. He acknowledged not knowing who had secured the part but expressed hope that it would be Lowden.
Responding to Oldman's comments, Lowden expressed gratitude while maintaining his cautious stance.
"It's very nice, and Gary's a sweetheart – it's particularly lovely, coming from someone like him. But I don't really listen to it."He added:
"As a young male actor, generally, the minute you're not playing a zany artist type, the minute you're in a suit, people fling it at you."
What are the betting odds?
Ladbrokes odds released on 2 November reflected Lowden's position as the frontrunner, placing him at 4/6 odds. Turner followed at 11/4, while O'Connor stood at 8/1 and Robert Pattinson at 12/1, indicating the relative likelihood bookmakers assigned to each candidate.
What is Lowden's background?
Lowden is best known for his role as River Cartwright in the espionage thriller Slow Horses, a series that has gained significant acclaim for its portrayal of intelligence work. His film credits include Dunkirk and Mary Queen Of Scots, while his television work spans roles in War and Peace. The actor has received two Bafta Awards and a Laurence Olivier Award, alongside nominations for two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award, establishing him as one of Britain's most accomplished performers.
What is happening with the next Bond film?
The next James Bond film is currently in development following the announcement last year that Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight would write the script. Amy Pascal and David Heyman will produce the project, which remains untitled, while Denis Villeneuve, the director of Dune, is attached to direct. Amazon MGM confirmed in May 2026 that casting for the next Bond had officially begun, marking the start of the formal process to find Craig's successor.
Pascal indicated earlier this year that a casting announcement by the end of 2026 was a "good bet," though she acknowledged that Craig had set a high standard. An official announcement naming Craig's successor was widely expected before the end of 2026, though Amazon MGM had not confirmed a specific timeline for the reveal.
Lowden's next project will see him starring alongside Emma Corrin in Dolly Alderton's adaptation of Pride And Prejudice, keeping him occupied while the Bond casting process unfolds.
Key Facts
- Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, and Josh O'Connor are among the contenders undergoing final screen tests for the role of James Bond
- Gary Oldman claimed producers had selected the next Bond but had not yet announced the decision publicly
- Betting odds as of 2 November placed Lowden at 4/6, making him the frontrunner among the reported candidates
- The next Bond film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve and written by Steven Knight, with an announcement expected before the end of 2026
- Daniel Craig played Bond for 15 years across five films, from Casino Royale in 2006 to No Time To Die in 2021
