There’s a new name in the running to land the role of James Bond ahead of the next hotly-anticipated instalment in the franchise, with the casting process now well underway.
The process hit a significant development this week after it was reported that director Denis Villeneuve and Amazon MGM producers have been personally reaching out to actors who have advanced in the selection process.
According to Deadline, Mr Villeneuve himself has been telephoning talent directly to inform them they have progressed to the next round of screen tests, scheduled for August.
Amazon MGM Studios declined to comment on the development.
While no performers have been officially named as contenders, the studio has been conducting preliminary discussions with potential candidates since Amy Pascal and David Heyman joined as producers in spring 2025.
Nina Gold, who finalised her appointment as casting director in April, has spent recent weeks meeting with emerging talent to identify potential rising stars who might suit the role better than more established names already under consideration.
These sessions have focused on lesser-known performers, with the aim of expanding the pool of candidates beyond the prominent actors expected to receive callbacks.
One such performer is rumoured to be Scott Rose-Marsh, a 38-year-old actor from Southampton, and the speculation has sent shockwaves through the betting markets.
Scott Rose-Marsh in the Welsh-speaking drama, Yr Amgueddfa
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S4C
According to William Hill, Mr Rose-Marsh, whose CV boasts credits in Amazon’s The Outlaws and the BBC’s Chloe, has landed himself among the frontrunners for the role.
Spokesperson for William Hill, Lee Phelps, said of the developments: “Scott Rose-Marsh is one of the standout movers in our next James Bond market this week.
“Having not featured among the main contenders in our previous update, he’s now into 8/1 following reports that auditions for the role got underway last month and that he was among those to step into the room.
“Bond betting always reacts strongly to credible industry speculation, and punters have clearly taken notice.”
Scott Rose-Marsh in Code of Silence
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CODE OF SILENCE
However, Mr Rose-Marsh still faces stiff competition from Hollywood heavyweights who have long been touted as suitable successors to Daniel Craig.
Among them is current leader of the pack Callum Turner. The likes of Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson are all close behind.
It is worth noting Mr Rose-Marsh has emerged as a name tied to the role before, after a 2025 hoax gained traction online.
However, he spoke out about the rumours, distancing himself from the 007 role at the time.
Callum Turner remains the frontrunner to be the next James Bond
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GETTYMr Rose-Marsh’s resume is a modest one in comparison but producers’ auditioning approach reflects a willingness to discover fresh faces for the franchise.
However, sources have indicated to Deadline that these meetings were specifically designed to determine whether any newcomers should be added to the existing shortlist of more recognisable contenders.
The precise number of candidates who will test in August remains uncertain, with varying accounts from industry sources.
Some insiders suggest the figure sits between five and seven actors, whilst others indicate the total could reach into the teens.
Jacob Elordi is also in the running
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GETTYOne source told Deadline that producers are expected to cast a wide net during this round.
The studio’s timeline calls for securing their new 007 before the year concludes, enabling filming to commence at some point in 2027.