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We still don't know who will replace Daniel Craig as the new James Bond, but we can safely say that it won't be one popular actor.
The 26th installment of the Bond franchise is already in the works. Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight has been tapped to write the script, while Dune director Denis Villeneuve is reportedly on board to direct.
But who will put on the tuxedo and say the lines that make James Bond the most famous spy in the world?
Famous Actor Ruled Out Of Playing James Bond
It seems like most famous British actors have been linked to the role at one point or another, but sources have seemingly ruled out one name.
Despite James Bond being one of the biggest characters in showbiz, it seems that some people are prioritising other movies.
So, Tom Holland fans, if you were hoping to see your favorite actor playing 007, then prepare for disappointment.
Despite being one of the frontrunners to succeed Daniel Craig as the next James Bond - with 12/1 odds at some bookmakers - the Marvel star is reportedly out of contention for the coveted 007 role.
The reason? His ongoing commitment to the Spider-Man franchise.
“Tom can’t play two superheroes, it just won’t happen,” a source told The Sun.
“It’s been written into his contract that he cannot pursue any other parts that will overshadow that one.”
And if any role could rival Peter Parker’s pop culture impact, it’s James Bond.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson Tops Bookmakers’ Lists
Currently, Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging star Aaron Taylor-Johnson, 35, is considered the frontrunner.
His appointment as global ambassador for Omega—the luxury watch brand famously associated with the Bond character—has only added fuel to the fire.
When asked by Deadline on the red carpet about his next role, he replied with a telling smirk: “I can’t talk about it.”
Other actors reportedly in the mix include Masters of the Air’s Callum Turner, Slow Horses star Jack Lowden, The Witcher’s Henry Cavill, and Saltburn’s Jacob Elordi.
Daniel Craig Has Officially Moved On — and Isn’t Looking Back
As speculation continues to swirl, former Bond actor Daniel Craig seems content to have left the role behind.
Promoting his recent film Queer alongside Drew Starkey, Craig was asked by Variety who he thinks should take up the Bond mantle.
His answer: "I don't care."
That sentiment echoes Craig’s comments in a 2022 BBC interview, where he reflected on the massive impact of his 17-year tenure as the British spy.
"I had an incredibly fortunate 17 years of my life making this," Craig said.
"I literally want to spend the next 20 years of my life trying to unhook it all and try and put it into a place because it was incredible."