By Ethan BrooksFormer 007 star Pierce Brosnan has voiced high praise for British actor Callum Turner, singling out his former co-star as a formidable candidate among the final four contenders vying to become the next James Bond in Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming franchise reboot.
In a new interview published Tuesday, the Irish actor shared his excitement about the ongoing casting search to replace Daniel Craig, who retired from the role after 2021’s No Time to Die. While Brosnan expressed admiration for all the young actors currently on the studio’s shortlist, he admitted having a special fondness for Turner after working alongside him previously.
Calling Turner a remarkably strong performer, Brosnan noted that every finalist in the running possesses the vocal command, physicality, and screen presence required to carry the iconic espionage mantle. He wished the eventual successor strength, longevity, and courage, adding that he eagerly awaits the official announcement and the celebration of a new era for the character.
Brosnan portrayed the British secret agent across four commercially successful films between 1995 and 2002, starting with GoldenEye, continuing through Tomorrow Never Dies and The World Is Not Enough, and concluding with Die Another Day. Having navigated the intense global pressure that accompanies the part, his perspective carries significant weight among fans and critics tracking the casting process.
Four Finalists Face Screen Tests
Brosnan’s endorsement arrives just weeks after industry insiders revealed that four candidates advanced to the final round of secret screen tests for the 26th Bond feature. Alongside Turner, who previously shared the screen with Brosnan in the 2019 drama The Only Living Boy in New York, the shortlist reportedly includes Slow Horses standout Jack Lowden, The Crown alum Josh O’Connor, and one unidentified actor.
Brosnan is not the only veteran star backing a favorite contender in the race. In September, Oscar winner Gary Oldman publicly rooted for his Slow Horses co-star Lowden, suggesting during a television interview that studio executives had already settled on their choice and were simply waiting for the right moment to unveil the decision.
Each of the known contenders brings a distinct dramatic background to the audition process, ranging from period prestige television and war dramas to gritty modern espionage thrillers. Studio executives have reportedly focused on finding an actor in his thirties who can commit to the physically demanding role across multiple theatrical releases over the next decade.
A New Creative Era at Amazon MGM
The upcoming 26th installment marks a historic behind-the-scenes transition for one of cinema’s longest-running franchises. Following stalled discussions over the series’ future direction, longtime franchise stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson handed full creative control to Amazon MGM Studios while remaining co-owners of the property.
To spearhead the revamped spy thriller, the studio tapped acclaimed Dune filmmaker Denis Villeneuve to direct from a screenplay by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, with veteran producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman overseeing development. As casting rumors dominate Entertainment headlines worldwide, Brosnan’s warm endorsement highlights the high caliber of British talent competing to wear the famous tuxedo.
