The Search for the Next James Bond: Who Will Step into 007’s Shoes?
OyeYeah picks the other top contenders to carry on the legacy of 007

The search for a new James Bond has been prompted by the departure of Daniel Craig, who concluded his tenure as the iconic character after five films spanning 16 years, with his final outing being No Time to Die in 2021.
This transition has led to intense speculation and anticipation regarding who will succeed him in the role, as the franchise prepares for its 26th instalment.
The next Bond film, which will be the 26th instalment in the series, is reported to be still in early development stages. Filming is expected to begin in 2024, with producers taking their time to ensure they select the right actor to carry on the legacy of 007.
Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, earlier indicated that while there is no rush, they are exploring various intriguing ideas for casting and story direction.
Speculation about the next James Bond has intensified, particularly surrounding British actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who is reportedly in the running for the iconic role. The actor, known for his performances in films like Kick-Ass and Nocturnal Animals, has been described as a frontrunner by various sources, with some even claiming he has been formally offered the role.
However, Eon Productions has not confirmed these rumours, stating they do not comment on speculation.
OyeYeah picks the other top contenders to fill in 007 shoes
While Taylor-Johnson is currently favoured, several other actors are also in contention:
- Henry Cavill: Previously considered for Bond before Daniel Craig was cast, Cavill has expressed interest in the role and remains a popular choice among fans.
- James Norton: Known for his roles in Happy Valley and McMafia, Norton has also been mentioned frequently as a potential successor.
- Damson Idris: At 32, he is one of the younger contenders, recognized for his role in Snowfall and Netflix’s Outside the Wire.
- Idris Elba: Although he has acknowledged that he might be “too old” for the role now, he remains a fan favourite.
- Tom Hardy and Josh O’Connor are also frequently mentioned as potential candidates.