The search for the next James Bond appears to be over, according to Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman, who claims the choice has been made. However, Steven Knight, the writer for the upcoming 007 film, has remained notably tight-lipped on the matter.

Oldman Claims Next Bond Has Been Picked

Gary Oldman, known for his roles in films such as ‘Darkest Hour’ and recently for the TV series ‘Slow Horses’, told Canada’s ‘The Morning Show’ that the producers have made their decision regarding the next 007. According to Variety, Oldman stated, “They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet.” He also expressed his personal hope that his ‘Slow Horses’ co-star, Jack Lowden, is the chosen actor, noting, “It’s been rumoured that [Lowden] is on the shortlist.”

Adding to the Lowden connection, his wife, actress Saoirse Ronan, recently told Empire magazine she was “dead serious” about playing a Bond villain, suggesting a “young female villain” could be “really interesting.”

The Search for the Next James Bond: Contenders and Writer’s Secrecy

While Oldman’s comments have intensified speculation, official confirmation remains elusive. Beyond Jack Lowden, other actors reported to be in the final running for the coveted role include Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Harris Dickinson. Variety also noted previous interest in Louis Partridge, and stage star Tom Francis reportedly auditioned. Amazon MGM has consistently refused to discuss casting details.

Steven Knight, the acclaimed creator of ‘Peaky Blinders’, is writing the script for the next Bond instalment, with Denis Villeneuve slated to direct. When asked by BBC Radio 4’s Today show if a casting decision had been made following Oldman’s comments, Knight playfully evaded the question. Deadline reported Knight’s response: “I cannot speak about this subject. Much as I would dearly love to.” He added that knowing the actor does make writing “a little bit easier,” but emphasised the need to “write the character, not the actor.”

Pierce Brosnan’s Endorsement for Tom Ellis

In a separate development, actor Tom Ellis, known globally for his role in ‘Lucifer’, revealed that former James Bond, Pierce Brosnan, once told him he would “make a good Bond.” Ellis, 47, recounted the conversation to Metro.co.uk, lightheartedly telling Brosnan, “Pierce, I think I’m probably too old now.” Ellis is currently starring as a British spy in the new police drama ‘CIA’.