Josh O'Connor Reacts to James Bond Casting Rumors, Reveals How He Feels About Possibly Playing 007

Josh O’Connor says being mentioned as a possible James Bond is an honor, but he’s not confirming any involvement in casting. The 36-year-old actor, known for Challengers and The Crown, is reportedly among those considered following Daniel Craig’s departure. Speaking at the opening of the Everyman Theatre’s new education and community center in his hometown of Cheltenham, England, Josh O’Connor called the attention an “incredibly bizarre pinch me moment.” He declined to say whether he had auditioned. Josh O’Connor previously addressed the speculation in January 2025, saying it gained momentum after he joked about playing the character. At that time, he said he knew of no plans for him to take on the role of James Bond. Jack Lowden and Callum Turner have also been linked to casting speculation, but Amazon MGM Studios has not publicly confirmed who auditioned. Denis Villeneuve will direct the next movie, with a screenplay by Steven Knight. No release date is confirmed.