The search for the next James Bond continues to be a subject of intense speculation following Daniel Craig's departure from the iconic role after five films, concluding with 2021's 'No Time To Die'. This ongoing discussion is set against the backdrop of Amazon's significant $1 billion acquisition of the franchise, signaling a major rebirth for the beloved spy series.

Among the actors long-linked to the 007 part is Taron Egerton, the 35-year-old 'Rocketman' star. Despite being backed by figures like Roger Moore's son Geoffrey in 2019, Egerton has expressed doubts about his suitability for the role. In a recent interview, he stated, "I don't think I'm a good choice for it, I think I'm too messy for that." He further emphasized his admiration for Daniel Craig's tenure but believes younger, cooler actors would be better suited, suggesting the role might be "wasted" on him. Egerton is no stranger to spy thrillers, having starred as Gary "Eggsy" Unwin in the 'Kingsman' film franchise.

Another name unexpectedly emerging as a front-runner is British actor Mike Dickman, 40. Having transitioned from a corporate career in sports to acting, Dickman has rapidly built an impressive portfolio, including a cameo in 'Barbie', a supporting role in the upcoming psychological thriller 'Secrets' (releasing August 19 on Amazon), and a prominent part in the 'Gandhi' series, which will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Dickman expressed humility about the Bond links, stating he's "crazy flattering to be mentioned in a bracket with all of those tremendous actors" and acknowledging the "whole rebirth of an incredible franchise."

Liverpool-born actor James Nelson-Joyce, 36, is also heavily tipped for the 007 role. Recently engaged to jazz singer Olivia Frances Brown, Nelson-Joyce playfully embraced the speculation by quipping, "I mean… double-O Scouse, I'm here for it." He has made a name for himself in BBC dramas such as 'Little Boy Blue' and 'This City is Ours', where he starred opposite Stephen Graham and Sean Bean, respectively.

Other prominent actors reportedly in the running for the coveted role include Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, Tom Holland, Aaron Taylor-Johnson (35), and Henry Cavill (42). However, an unstated age preference for a younger Bond could potentially rule out some of the more established names over 30.

Shifting focus to the creative direction, Steven Knight, the acclaimed creator behind the smash-hit show 'Peaky Blinders', has been signed to write the next James Bond film. Knight, 65, promises to make it “better, stronger and bolder.” Industry expert Matthew Field views this as a strong indication that Bond's British heritage will be safely preserved, noting Amazon's choice of a "truly great British writer who understands Bond’s importance." Knight's extensive film and TV pedigree spans over 25 years and includes co-creating 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?' and writing 'SAS: Rogue Heroes'. He joins a "great collection of creative minds" for the Bond reinvention, alongside 'Dune' director Denis Villeneuve and producers David Heyman and Amy Pascal, known for the 'Harry Potter' and 'Spider-Man' films.

Even former Bond actors are weighing in on the future of the franchise. Daniel Craig, reflecting on his impactful tenure, expressed it was "an honour" and an "important part of my life" that he can't fully leave behind. Meanwhile, Pierce Brosnan, who played Bond from 1995 to 2002, admitted he would return as 007 “in a heartbeat” if given the opportunity by someone like Denis Villeneuve, despite acknowledging that "no one wants to see a craggy, 72-year-old Bond."