Is Callum Turner actually the next James Bond? Latest 'sign' a confirmation could be imminent explained

As fans around the world continue to wait for news as to who will be playing James Bond, a new potential clue has been uncovered, suggesting one of the stars currently believed to be in the running could have been cast.

It was previously reported that Callum Turner, Jack Lowden and Josh O'Connor were among four stars taking part in final screen tests for the highly sought-after role in Denis Villeneuve's upcoming reboot film.

Now, the Daily Mail has reported that Turner has stepped down as a director of the production company he set up with his wife Dua Lipa last year, Twentytwo Films Ltd.

The company was set up in August, with Turner and Dua Lipa having equal shares. Its aim was to produce film and television projects.

The timing of this has been read as a possible sign that the actor is clearing his schedule for the franchise, although nothing has yet been confirmed and this could simply be coincidental timing.

Turner has previously starred in series such as War & Peace, The Capture and Masters of the Air, as well as films such as Green Room, Assassin's Creed, Emma, Eternity, One Night Only and the Fantastic Beasts franchise.

This news also comes as Lowden has recently addressed speculation about his own potential casting in the role. Speaking with GQ, he said of the Bond speculation: "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."

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The next Bond film is being developed by Amazon MGM, with Villeneuve directing and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight writing the screenplay.

Reports have suggested a decision on who will play the next 007 could come before the end of 2026, with producer Amy Pascal telling Deadline that "the end of the year is a good bet". However, that has not been confirmed as a definite deadline for the casting, and for now fans will just have to continue to wait patiently...

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Authors

James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.