Jack Lowden breaks silence on Bond favourite claims after Gary Oldman's endorsement

Jack Lowden has finally broken his silence on the swirling speculation that he is the clear favourite to become the next James Bond, following final auditions held last month. The Daily Mail reported ^[1] that the Scottish actor, 36, addressed the rumours by saying he does not intend to "add to the noise," describing the chatter as merely "very flattering."

His comments come after his Slow Horses co-star, Gary Oldman, confidently suggested that the decision has already been made but not yet announced. According to the Daily Mail ^[1], Oldman told the press: "Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack."

Speaking to GQ, Lowden acknowledged the praise but maintained a stoic approach. "It's very nice, and Gary's a sweetheart – it's particularly lovely, coming from someone like him," he said. "But I don't really listen to it." He also noted that male actors often find themselves cast in Bond roles simply by virtue of wearing a suit rather than playing quirky characters.

The speculation intensified after reports that screen tests took place at Bray Studios in Berkshire, with Lowden and Callum Turner among those auditioning. Bookies at Ladbrokes, as cited by The Sun ^[1], indicated that punters are firmly backing Lowden, who currently holds odds of 8/11 to secure the role. Turner, his main rival, sits at 2/1 odds, while other contenders are listed at a less favourable 16/1.

Bond producer Amy Pascal confirmed in August that the casting process is nearing its conclusion, stating that "the end of the year is a good bet" for an announcement. If casting is confirmed by December, Amazon MGM Studios could begin filming the next instalment in 2027. Pascal emphasised the need for a fresh take, noting that Daniel Craig is "a hard act to follow."

While Lowden has been linked to the role alongside names like Josh O'Connor and Jacob Elordi, only six actors have ever portrayed Ian Fleming’s secret agent in official films. Lowden also touched on his personal life, discussing his wife Saoirse Ronan and the joy of becoming a father in September 2025, admitting that watching her act remains a wonderful experience.