Jack Lowden has welcomed being mentioned as a possible James Bond while declining to elaborate on speculation about the role. Speaking to British GQ, the “Slow Horses” actor also expressed appreciation for co-star Gary Oldman’s public support as the search continues for Daniel Craig’s replacement.
“It’s all very flattering,” Lowden said of the attention. He described Oldman’s encouragement as particularly meaningful but said he does not pay much attention to the rumors. Lowden plays intelligence agent River Cartwright alongside Oldman’s Jackson Lamb in the Apple TV spy thriller.
Lowden suggested that Bond speculation is a familiar experience for young male actors whose roles fit a certain image. In his view, appearing in a suit rather than playing an eccentric artist can be enough to prompt people to connect an actor with the British secret agent.
His remarks come amid reports that the casting process is approaching its final stages. Variety reported on Oct. 23 that Amazon MGM was preparing final screen tests, with Lowden and “Masters of the Air” actor Callum Turner believed to be contenders. “Challengers” actor Josh O’Connor has reportedly been offered a test as well. Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Paul Mescal are among the other actors previously linked to the part.
Interest in Lowden increased in September following Oldman’s appearance on Canada’s “The Morning Show.” Oldman said his co-star was rumored to be on the shortlist and suggested that producers had chosen an actor but had yet to reveal the decision. He expressed hope that Lowden would get the role.
Oldman subsequently clarified those comments during an appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival. He explained that he had heard a rumor about an actor being selected from a six-person shortlist and did not know who had been chosen. He also disputed coverage implying that he possessed inside information, joking that the headlines suggested he had direct access to director Denis Villeneuve.
The upcoming film will be the first Bond installment since Amazon MGM assumed creative control from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson in 2025. Villeneuve is attached to direct, while “Peaky Blinders” creator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay. Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing, and casting director Nina Gold is leading the search for the next 007.
Craig’s tenure ended with “No Time to Die” in 2021, his fifth Bond film after taking on the role in 2006’s “Casino Royale.” An announcement identifying his successor is widely expected before the end of 2026, although Amazon MGM has not confirmed when it will disclose the casting.
