Bond 2028: Screen Tests for New James Bond Role Begin

A select group of actors, including Callum Turner and Jack Lowden, are set to screen-test for the role of James Bond this weekend in London ^[1]. The tests, reported to include stunts, camera presence and dialogue, are said to involve between three and five finalists, according to the Hollywood Reporter and Variety. The role, vacated by Daniel Craig after No Time to Die in 2021, remains one of the most sought-after in film.

Denis Villeneuve, director of the Dune franchise, will helm the next Bond film for Amazon MGM Studios, which acquired the franchise rights in a $8.45bn deal in 2022 ^[1]. Steven Knight, known for Peaky Blinders, is writing the script. Amazon has neither confirmed nor denied the screen-test reports, but reiterated its earlier stance: 'The search for the next James Bond is under way'.

Villeneuve, a self-described 'diehard Bond fan', has said he is approaching the project with a critical eye, stating he wants to avoid complacency and ensure the film feels fresh ^[1]. He described the opportunity to direct Bond as a 'powerful rocket' to pull him away from the Dune universe, which has consumed much of his career.

The film is still expected to release in 2028, following months of speculation after Villeneuve’s appointment was announced in 2025. This marks the first full screen test for Bond in over 20 years, with previous tests including Henry Cavill, who ultimately did not land the role ^[1].

Jack O’Connell and Jacob Elordi are not among the finalists, according to the Hollywood Reporter ^[1]. Amazon’s film chief Courtenay Valenti urged fans to be patient earlier this year, stressing the importance of selecting the right actor with 'deep respect'. The story was first reported by The Guardian.