Top James Bond Contender Officially Reacts to Rumors Amid Final 007 Screen Tests
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There's probably no role in Hollywood that comes with quite as much speculation, scrutiny, and downright ridiculous levels of attention as James Bond. Ever since Daniel Craig hung up his tuxedo following No Time to Die, practically every British actor under the age of 40 has found himself linked to the famous 007 designation at one point or another. But while some actors might be desperate to get their hands on the keys to the Aston Martin, one of the current frontrunners seems considerably less enthusiastic about discussing the possibility. Even if one of Hollywood's greatest actors is rooting for him.
Jack Lowden, one of the actors who has been linked heavily with the role of the next Bond — indeed, reported to have been screen testing for the role by the trades — has spoken publicly about it for the first time, and it was quite a funny retort. Speaking with British GQ, the Scottish actor offered a rather exhausted "Oh, Christ" when asked about comments made by his Slow Horses co-star Gary Oldman, who made it clear he was hoping Lowden would get the job. Lowden was clearly touched by the support, even if he wasn't about to start discussing his chances of becoming 007.
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. It's very nice, and Gary's a sweetheart – it's particularly lovely, coming from someone like him. But I don't really listen to it.
Lowden also noted that, if you're a British actor of a certain age, speculation about becoming the new Bond is practically unavoidable. "As a young male actor, generally, the minute you're not playing a zany artist type, the minute you're in a suit, people fling it at you."
Gary Oldman Thinks Jack Lowden Should Be the Next James Bond
Oldman, who stars alongside Lowden in Apple's acclaimed espionage thriller Slow Horses, previously appeared to suggest that a decision had already been made, although he stopped short of revealing whether he actually knew the identity of the next Bond.
It's been rumoured that he's on the shortlist. We're going to find out pretty soon, aren't we? Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack.
Amazon MGM Studios has not announced the next James Bond actor or a release date for Villeneuve's upcoming reboot.
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