New James Bond Lead Has Been Picked, Gary Oldman Claims as He Backs 'Slow Horses' Co-Star Jack Lowden

The wait for the next James Bond may finally be nearing its end, with Gary Oldman claiming producers have already chosen Daniel Craig's successor. Oldman, 68, made the claim while discussing his Apple TV+ series Slow Horses, in which he stars alongside Jack Lowden, 36.

The veteran actor also appeared to throw his support behind Lowden, who has repeatedly been linked with the coveted 007 role. Speaking to Canada's The Morning Show, Oldman suggested the decision has already been made, although Amazon MGM Studios has yet to reveal the actor publicly.

Gary Oldman Says Next James Bond Has Been Chosen, According to Actor

Oldman acknowledged the rumours that Lowden is among the actors reportedly being considered for the role. He also suggested that the process has gone further than public reports indicate.

'We're going to find out pretty soon, aren't we? Because they have picked him,' the Oscar winner said. 'They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet.'

Oldman then made clear that he would welcome Lowden taking over as Bond, saying he was keeping his hopes up for his Slow Horses co-star. Page Six has reached out to Amazon MGM Studios and Lowden's representative for comment, but Lowden has not publicly responded to the latest speculation.

Six Actors Reportedly Remain in the James Bond Race

Lowden is not the only name linked with the next 007. Recent reports, including from Page Six, have identified six actors reportedly in contention: Jack Barton, Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal and Harris Dickinson.

Barton, 31, has emerged as a surprise frontrunner in some reports, while Turner and Lowden have remained among the most frequently discussed candidates. Earlier speculation also linked Henry Cavill, James Norton, Jack O'Connell and Aaron Taylor-Johnson with the role.

Cavill previously auditioned for Bond in 2005 but was reportedly considered too young at the time.

Director Martin Campbell has also previously said an actor in his mid-30s would be preferable for a long-term run, suggesting that Cavill, 43, may have lost his chance to play the iconic role.

A mid-30s actor would give the Bond franchise the longevity needed for a long-term run, potentially spanning five films.

Given that Bond films can take several years to produce, a five-film stint could realistically stretch across 10–15 years, allowing an actor who starts at 35 to remain in the role into their late 40s.

George Clooney Backs Callum Turner for James Bond

George Clooney has also offered his own choice for Craig's successor, backing Callum Turner for the role. who directed Turner in The Boys in the Boat, said he believed the British actor had the qualities needed to become 007, praising his appearance, charm and nationality.

Daniel Craig Left James Bond Five Years Ago

Craig played James Bond for 15 years across five films, beginning with Casino Royale in 2006 and ending with No Time to Die in 2021. He confirmed in November 2019 that No Time to Die would be his final Bond film, after previously indicating that he was ready to leave the franchise.

Craig's departure in 2021 set off a five-year search that has yet to reach a conclusion. For now, fans must wait for Amazon MGM Studios to break its silence.