The race to identify the next James Bond has taken another unexpected turn, as British actor Callum Turner surges to the top of betting charts across the UK. Although producers have made no official announcement, the speculation machine is once again in full gear — and bookmakers are treating Turner’s rising odds as a signal worth watching.

Turner has hovered around the Bond conversation for years, but new market movements suggest something significant may be shifting behind the scenes. Betting giant Ladbrokes recently slashed his odds to 5/2, placing him ahead of long-time favourite Aaron Taylor-Johnson and edging him closer to the iconic tuxedo.

A Franchise in Transition

The Bond universe has been in limbo since 2021’s No Time to Die, which marked the end of Daniel Craig’s celebrated tenure. While fans have spent four years debating potential replacements, the franchise itself has also been evolving. Notably, 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of GoldenEye, Pierce Brosnan’s debut — a reminder of how casting choices can transform Bond for a generation.

Yet, despite the nostalgia, the future remains unwritten. The 26th Bond film is not expected to hit cinemas until 2027, and with Denis Villeneuve now confirmed as director and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight penning the script, anticipation is high. Still, the most important piece of the puzzle — the next 007 — remains unfilled.

Why Turner Is Suddenly Leading

According to VegasInsider’s aggregated odds, Turner has, for the first time, overtaken Taylor-Johnson as the most likely candidate. Their data places Turner at +262, giving him a 27.6% probability of becoming Bond.

Industry observers say Turner checks many of the boxes producers traditionally favour:

• He is British

  
  
  

• His career is rising steadily

• He is well-known but not overexposed

• He has the look and range to redefine the role

From Fantastic Beasts to Masters of the Air, Turner has built an impressive résumé without becoming typecast — a quality that historically appeals to Bond filmmakers looking for actors who can grow into the role.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson Still in the Mix

Despite his recent slip, Taylor-Johnson remains a formidable contender with +280 odds. He has spent the past three years dominating conversations around the next 007, and insiders say his momentum tends to fluctuate — meaning his fall from the top spot may only be temporary.

What continues to intrigue fans is Taylor-Johnson’s partnership with Omega, the luxury watch brand synonymous with Bond. While not definitive proof, previous ambassador relationships have often aligned with casting decisions.

Other Names in the Race

Behind the two frontrunners is a lineup of familiar faces:

• Henry Cavill (+762) — popular with fans but potentially outside the preferred age range

• Theo James (+964) — an actor whose odds rise sharply each time he gains new visibility

  
  
  

• Jack Lowden and Harris Dickinson (+1534 each) — younger talents who remain dark horses

The casting landscape has also shifted since Amazon MGM Studios gained full creative control of the franchise. Earlier assumptions have been thrown out the window, and bookmakers are adjusting to the new unpredictability.

The Road to 2027

Filming for Bond 26 is expected to begin in 2026, giving producers a long runway to make their choice. But every shift in betting odds renews speculation, and Turner’s rise has reignited global debate.

While fans and analysts continue to push their preferred candidates, the truth remains: until the producers speak, everything is still guesswork.

Yet one thing feels certain — the next 007 will once again reshape the global Bond legacy. And for now, Turner is the man in the spotlight.

FAQ

1. Has the next James Bond been officially announced?
No. The production team has not confirmed any actor for the role.

2. Why is Callum Turner suddenly the frontrunner?
His odds improved significantly due to increased bookmaker confidence, consistent career growth, and his alignment with typical Bond casting trends.

3. Who is directing the next Bond film?
Denis Villeneuve will direct, with Steven Knight writing the script.

4. When will the next Bond movie be released?
The 26th Bond film is expected to arrive in cinemas in 2027.

5. Is Aaron Taylor-Johnson out of the race?
No — he remains a strong contender and continues to rank closely behind Turner.