LONDON, UK: Who will become the next James Bond? Could the man who plays Batman now take on the role of the world’s most famous secret agent? Hollywood star Robert Pattinson has joined the race to become the next 007.
Robert Pattinson is reportedly a finalist to play the next James Bond. This scene in Tenet is all the proof I need that no one could do it better. https://t.co/tZwZDmjjNa
— Best Movie Moments 🍿 (@BestMovieMom) November 7, 2026
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Pattinson was among the actors who took part in screen tests for the iconic role over the weekend of October 24. Other reported candidates include Callum Turner, Jack Lowden and Josh O’Connor.
The names surrounding James Bond #JamesBond007:
Robert Pattinson
Tom Holland
Nicholas Hoult
Nicholas Galitzine
Jack Lowden
Callum Turner
Josh O’ConnorMy obvious choice would be Henry Cavill, but years ago after TENET I said I’d like Robert Pattinson as Bond… https://t.co/7tnhXYYv1m
— The Nu Geekz❗ (@TheNuGeekz) November 7, 2026
Around four or five actors are believed to be in the running, but no final decision has been announced by Amazon MGM Studios.
Pattinson, 40, is already known for playing Batman in The Batman and Edward Cullen in the Twilight films. His other popular movies include Tenet and The Lighthouse. He is also attached to upcoming projects such as The Odyssey and Dune: Part Three.
One interesting point in Pattinson’s favour is his connection with Denis Villeneuve, who will direct the next James Bond film. The actor has worked with Villeneuve on Dune: Part Three.
Right, time to settle this once and for all… 🍸
Who should be the next James Bond?Pick ONE and tell me why. Or name someone I’ve missed. https://t.co/xr8yUlkEe2
— Benonwine (@benonwine) November 7, 2026
Who are the other actors in the race?
Pattinson is facing competition from several British actors who have also been linked to the famous role.
- Callum Turner: Known for Fantastic Beasts and Masters of the Air, Turner has received public support from former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan, who praised him as “so strong”.
- Jack Lowden: The Scottish actor is widely recognised for his role in the popular series Slow Horses.
- Josh O’Connor: Known for The Crown and Challengers, O’Connor is another reported candidate.
- Nicholas Hoult: The X-Men actor has also been mentioned among possible choices. Interestingly, he previously competed with Pattinson for the role of Batman.
However, none of these actors has officially been confirmed as the next 007.
Josh O’Connor is reportedly the next James Bond, according to The Sun. If this turns out to be true, I couldn’t be happier with the choice. One of the finest actors of his generation. https://t.co/XMr8AfRFnP
— Best Movie Moments 🍿 (@BestMovieMom) November 5, 2026
When will the new James Bond film begin?
The next James Bond movie, known as Bond 26, will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, while Steven Knight, the creator of Peaky Blinders, is writing the screenplay.
Filming is expected to begin in 2027, although the official production date and release schedule have not yet been announced.
The new film will be the first Bond adventure since Daniel Craig’s final appearance in No Time to Die in 2021.
On this day in 1961, Sean Connery was announced as the first actor to play James Bond in films. https://t.co/DxV8boxVqP
— James Bond (@007) November 3, 2026
A brief history of James Bond
British author Ian Fleming created James Bond, who first appeared in his 1953 novel Casino Royale. The character made his big-screen debut in Dr. No in 1962, starring Sean Connery.
Since then, six actors have officially played the famous British secret agent in the main film series:
- Sean Connery (1962–1971): The first big-screen James Bond, starring in six official films.
- George Lazenby (1969): Played Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
- Roger Moore (1973–1985): Starred in seven Bond films.
- Timothy Dalton (1987–1989): Appeared in The Living Daylights and Licence to Kill.
- Pierce Brosnan (1995–2002): Played Bond in four films, starting with GoldenEye.
- Daniel Craig (2006–2021): Starred in five films, ending his journey with No Time to Die.
The next actor will become the seventh official James Bond in the main film series. Until Amazon MGM Studios makes its announcement, the big question remains: Will the next 007 be Robert Pattinson or another Hollywood star?
