Kristin Scott Thomas backs Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden to be next James Bond

Kristin Scott Thomas has said her Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden would be “very good” as the next James Bond.

Lowden is believed to be one of the top contenders for the role alongside Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor.

The actor chosen will replace Daniel Craig, who took over the role of Bond with Casino Royale in 2006 and bowed out after his fifth film, No Time To Die, in 2021.

Scott Thomas was asked about rumours Lowden could be the next 007 and told The Times: “Oh God, I wish I knew. He’d be very, very good.

Lowden is believed to be one of the top contenders for the role alongside Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor (Ian West/PA)

PA Archive

“He’s got that twinkle, he’s cheeky and he’s a very, very good actor.”

Speaking recently to GQ Hype, Lowden responded to the rumours, but did not confirm or deny whether he was part of the auditioning process.

He said: “On this… it’s all very flattering. It’s nice to be mentioned – for any role – and I’m just not really going to add to the noise.”

Lowden was reported to have screen tested for the role in London in October, along with Turner and O’Connor.

Amy Pascal, who will produce the next Bond film, told Deadline earlier this year about casting: “I would say (an announcement by) the end of the year is a good bet.

Lowden was reported to have screen tested for the role in London in October (Jane Barlow/PA)

PA Archive

“We are being really, really methodical. Having worked with (producer) Barbara Broccoli at the studio, I mean, Daniel Craig is a hard act to follow.

“And it’s got to be something really different that is stirring, exciting and different.”

The next Bond film, currently untitled, will be directed by Dune’s Denis Villeneuve and Harry Potter producer David Heyman will work alongside Pascal on the project.