LONDON – The race for the next 007 has taken a sharp turn toward Australia. Reports surfacing this week suggest that Oscar-nominated actor Jacob Elordi has moved to the top of the shortlist to succeed Daniel Craig as the next James Bond.
Industry insiders claim the 28-year-old Saltburn and Frankenstein star has already held private meetings with the franchise’s longtime producers and director Denis Villeneuve, who is heavily rumored to be helming the upcoming reboot for Amazon MGM Studios.
The New Favorite
While names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Callum Turner have dominated headlines for months, Elordi’s recent surge in momentum follows his 2026 Oscar nomination for his role in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.
Standing at 6’5″, Elordi would be the tallest actor ever to play the role. Sources suggest his physical presence and “detached coldness” align perfectly with the ruthless version of Bond found in Ian Fleming’s original novels.
Current Betting Odds (February 2026):
- Callum Turner: 10/11
- Jacob Elordi: 2/1 (Surging)
- Aaron Taylor-Johnson: 3/1
- Henry Cavill: 6/1
A Younger, “Origin” Bond
The potential casting of Elordi supports rumors that the next film, tentatively titled Bond 26, will serve as a franchise reset. Screenwriter Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) is reportedly crafting a story that explores Bond’s early years in the Royal Navy and his initial recruitment into MI6.
The “Villeneuve” Factor
The involvement of Denis Villeneuve is a major component of the Elordi rumors. Villeneuve, known for Dune and Blade Runner 2049, is reportedly looking for a “fresh face” who can carry the franchise for the next decade.
Insiders indicate that a formal screen test—the legendary “tuxedo and action scene” trial—is likely to take place by mid-2026, with an official announcement expected shortly after.
What Fans Are Saying
The news has sparked a divide among the “Bond-munity.” While some praise Elordi’s acting range and height as “imposing and cinematic,” traditionalists have questioned whether a non-British actor should take on the quintessentially English icon.
Jacob Elordi James Bond Rumors
This video discusses the broader landscape of the 007 search and how the recent shifts under Amazon’s ownership are influencing the hunt for a new leading man.
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