I expect you to cry: what the James Bond actors may face at the final audition
As the search for the next James Bond nears its conclusion, reports suggest a final round of screen tests for several British actors. The article explores the challenges of the casting process and the long hiatus of the franchise.
Why it matters
The James Bond franchise is a major cultural and economic pillar in the film industry, and the casting decision is a significant media event.
Conjuring chemistry … Turner, Callum Turner at the 82nd Venice film festival, 2025. Conjuring chemistry … Turner, Callum Turner at the 82nd Venice film festival, 2025. James Bond I expect you to cry: what the James Bond actors may face at the final audition Jack Lowden, Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor are rumoured to be the final candidates taking screentests this weekend. So how can they best prepare? And who is likely to triumph?
Stuart Heritage Fri 23 Oct 2026 13.38 BST Last modified on Fri 23 Oct 2026 19.29 BST Share Prefer the Guardian on Google T his weekend, the identity of the next James Bond is finally expected to be known – to the insiders, at least. According to reports, a number of youngish British actors – definitely three, possibly five – will have their final screen tests.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in