Actor Jack Lowden, who portrayed Lawrence of Arabia in EA's 2016 video game "Battlefield 1," is reportedly a finalist in the ongoing search for the next actor to play James Bond.
According to Deadline, "final auditions" for the iconic role are set to occur in the coming week, including screen tests. Lowden is among at least four actors invited to test for the part. Other reported finalists include Callum Turner, known for "Masters of the Air," and Josh O'Connor of "Disclosure Day." The identity of a fourth actor remains unconfirmed, though The Insneider suggested Jacob Elordi. However, The Hollywood Reporter has stated that Elordi is not participating in the screen tests, nor is Jack O'Connell from "Skins."
Industry insiders widely expect the casting process to conclude relatively soon, with an official announcement anticipated before the end of the year. In May, Amazon MGM Studios, which acquired the Bond franchise, confirmed that the search for a new Bond actor was underway, declining to comment on the specifics of the casting process.
Lowden, who hails from Scotland, would be the second Scottish actor to portray James Bond, following the original and iconic Sean Connery. The character himself is Scottish in Ian Fleming's book series.
Fans have been awaiting the next installment in the James Bond saga since the release of "No Time To Die" in 2021. The film's production, like many others, experienced delays, including three attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. Daniel Craig concluded his five-film tenure as Bond with "No Time To Die." The acquisition of the franchise by Amazon MGM Studios saw creative control return to the studio from long-time stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. The upcoming James Bond film is slated to be directed by Denis Villeneuve, the acclaimed filmmaker behind the "Dune" franchise and other notable films such as "Prisoners," "Sicario," "Blade Runner 2049," and "Arrival."