Pattinson and Hoult Test for Next Bond
Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult screen-tested for James Bond as casting rumors swirl around the franchise.
TL;DR
- Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult auditioned for the next James Bond in late October.
- Denis Villeneuve is set to direct with Steven Knight writing the script.
- Other names in the mix include Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, Josh O’Connor, Harry Styles and Theo James.
Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult both auditioned for the next James Bond role. The tests happened around late October, though the names only surfaced recently.
Amazon MGM Studios now controls the franchise and has stayed silent on the process. Director Denis Villeneuve is attached, with Steven Knight writing the script and producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman overseeing.
Pattinson comes with major franchise experience from The Batman and a recent collaboration with Villeneuve on Dune: Part Three. Hoult has played Lex Luthor in the Superman films and appeared in the X-Men prequels; his next project, How to Rob a Bank, hits theaters November 13.
Other actors who tested include Callum Turner, Jack Lowden and Josh O’Connor. Reports differ on Turner’s status: one insider suggested he was already chosen, while fresh details indicate the decision remains open. Additional names floated in the mix are Harry Styles, who had discussions, and Theo James, who is still in consideration.
Pierce Brosnan voiced support for Turner, while Gary Oldman backed Lowden and claimed a choice had been made, though no official announcement exists.
The Tea
Amazon wants Bond 26 to land quickly once Villeneuve finishes Dune work. Bringing in actors already known for big superhero and franchise roles could shift the series toward star power rather than the usual star-making gamble. The real move will come when the studio finally stops the guessing game and names the new 007.