James Bond casting officially starts as Amazon MGM seeks next spy

Amazon MGM Studios has officially announced that the search for the next James Bond is now underway.

In a statement posted on X, the studio confirmed the search for Daniel Craig's successor has begun, marking the clearest indication yet that the franchise is moving forward following Craig's departure.

The studio said it does not intend to comment on specific details throughout the casting process but will share updates with 007 fans when the time is right.

The announcement comes years after "No Time to Die", Craig's final appearance as the iconic British spy.

According to Variety, Amazon MGM Studios has recently begun holding auditions, with casting director Nina Gold reportedly playing a key role in identifying the next Bond.

Denis Villeneuve has been set to direct the upcoming James Bond film, with Steven Knight attached to write the screenplay. Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing the project, while Tanya Lapointe will serve as executive producer.

Speaking at CinemaCon, Amazon MGM Studios head of film Courtenay Valenti said the studio is approaching the franchise with caution and respect, taking time to handle it carefully and honour the legacy.

Even before the official announcement, speculation surrounding the next Bond actor had intensified, with names such as Jacob Elordi, Callum Turner, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson frequently surfacing as possible contenders. Reports that auditions are now underway have also fuelled speculation that the studio could opt for a relatively lesser-known actor instead of an established Hollywood star.