James Bond Shortlist Down to Four Actors as House of the Dragon Star Emerges as Possible Villain

The search for the next James Bond has reportedly narrowed to four actors, with Amazon MGM Studios preparing for the final stage of casting. The identity of the new 007 could be announced before the end of the year.

According to Deadline, at least four actors have been invited to screen tests. They reportedly include Jack Lowden, Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor. The identity of the fourth contender has not yet been revealed.

The Hollywood Reporter reports that Jack O’Connell and Jacob Elordi, both previously linked to the role, will not be invited to the final auditions. The screen tests could take place as early as this week or next.

Debbie McWilliams, the former casting director who helped select the actors to play Bond in the films starring Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, has previously stressed that the actor portraying 007 must retain an air of mystery. In her view, audiences should not know too much about his private life, as the spy’s character needs to remain unpredictable and convincing.

Meanwhile, the filmmakers are reportedly considering an actor for the role of the main villain. According to media reports, 29-year-old Ewan Mitchell, best known for playing Aemond Targaryen in House of the Dragon, could join the project.

A source cited by The Sun described Mitchell as a strong candidate, noting that the actor already has several notable credits but is not yet as widely known as some of the stars linked to the role of Bond. According to the source, the filmmakers are looking for a rising star with a distinctive appearance.

The new film will follow No Time to Die, the last Bond installment starring Daniel Craig, which was released in 2021. Following its acquisition of MGM in 2025, Amazon took control of the iconic franchise.