The casting process for the next James Bond has only just officially begun, with Amazon MGM Studios confirming auditions are underway under casting director Nina Gold and no actor selected as of mid-May 2026. This timeline keeps the “no bond chosen” outcome heavily favored, as a final decision is not expected until later this year at the earliest, with production eyed for 2027 and a potential 2028 release. Among the contenders, Callum Turner sits at the front of industry speculation thanks to consistent frontrunner status in betting markets and recent reports of his strong positioning, while Jacob Elordi and Aaron Taylor-Johnson trail amid ongoing rumors but lack confirmed momentum. The wide field reflects the early stage of the search and the franchise’s history of keeping options open until the creative team, including director Denis Villeneuve, narrows its list.