The highly anticipated search for the next James Bond continues to be a subject of intense speculation and rumor following Daniel Craig's emotional departure from the iconic role after five successful films, concluding with 2021's No Time To Die. Craig, who also starred in Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), and Spectre (2015), has reflected on his tenure as an "honor" and an "important part of my life." The future of the 007 franchise, now under Amazon's creative control, is set for a "whole rebirth" with a target release date of 2028 for the 26th installment, and reports suggest a preference for a British actor under the age of 30.

Among the actors long-linked to the coveted secret agent role is 35-year-old Rocketman star Taron Egerton. Despite being backed for the part by figures like Roger Moore's son Geoffrey in 2019, Egerton has recently addressed the rumors, stating he doesn't believe he's a "good choice" for Bond. Speaking to Collider, Egerton shared his view: "I think I'm too messy for that... I think there's so many cool, younger actors who would be great for it. I think it would be wasted on me, probably." Egerton, who won a Golden Globe for portraying Elton John, has prior experience in secret agent roles from the Kingsman film franchise, where he played Gary "Eggsy" Unwin.

However, recent odds from Heart Bingo suggest a new frontrunner has emerged: British actor Callum Turner. Engaged to high-profile pop star Dua Lipa, Turner has reportedly taken the lead in the race to portray 007, claiming the highest share of positive public posts regarding his potential role. Fans may recognize Turner from his role as Theseus Scamander in the Fantastic Beasts series. His engagement to Dua Lipa, revealed by The Sun after a year of dating, adds to his current high profile.

Another surprising contender who has admitted to being "flattered" by the links is British actor Mike Dickman. The 40-year-old rising star, who transitioned from a corporate career in sports to acting, was listed by bookies as a surprise frontrunner earlier this year. Dickman's recent portfolio includes a cameo in the blockbuster Barbie, a supporting role in the psychological thriller Secrets (releasing August 19 on Amazon), and a prominent feature in the upcoming series Gandhi, where he plays the racist Captain Harry Sparks. He described the ongoing casting as a "whole rebirth of an incredible franchise."

Beyond these prominent names, several other actors are reportedly in the running. These include Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, Tom Holland, James Norton, Aaron Taylor-Johnson (who at 35 might be considered too old based on studio preferences), Paul Mescal, Henry Cavill (42, also potentially ruled out by age), and Tom Hardy. The speculation extends to the next Bond girl, with The White Lotus and Euphoria actress Sydney Sweeney, 27, reportedly a favorite backed by Amazon boss Jeff Bezos himself. With Denis Villeneuve appointed as director, the anticipation for the next chapter of James Bond continues to build as the industry awaits the final decision on who will embody the iconic secret agent.