The Upcoming 007: Three Actors Who Might Steer James Bond into a New Era

      Denis Villeneuve has an opportunity to revamp the James Bond franchise with a bold choice for the lead role in his forthcoming James Bond film. Here are three actors who could usher 007 into a new era…

      What defines an exceptional James Bond? Ian Fleming, the creator of 007, understood that Bond needed to appear stylish and sophisticated in a tuxedo, sipping his vodka martini, shaken, not stirred, while on a covert MI6 mission to save the world. This idea of what constitutes a great James Bond is surely at the forefront of Denis Villeneuve's mind, the director of the next installment, who will introduce the seventh actor to take on the iconic role of the 00-agent with a license to kill.

      Denis Villeneuve is a visionary director, most recently noted for the Dune franchise featuring Timothée Chalamet, where he transformed this legendary material into a cinematic triumph filled with intricate world-building, themes of religious fanaticism, and heroic sacrifice set against an intergalactic war. Similar to his unorthodox selection of Chalamet to play a character destined for greatness, I suspect Villeneuve will adopt a similar approach with his casting choice for James Bond.

      Assuming Villeneuve opts for an actor of British, English, or Commonwealth descent, here are three outstanding candidates to embody MI6’s most lethal operatives and reasons why they’d be ideal for the next 007…

      Richard Madden – The Sophisticate

      Richard Madden possesses the quintessential Bond “it-factor,” showcasing a suave and elegant presence on screen. The Golden Globe winner has portrayed a “King in the North,” a Marvel superhero, and displayed his firearm skills in series like Bodyguard and Citadel.

      Being Scottish, he would evoke nostalgia for arguably the greatest James Bond, Sean Connery, who shared the same heritage. Madden has long been rumored to be on the Bond shortlist, but his unique combination of rugged charm with a rare vulnerable sensibility makes him a strong candidate. This has been evident in his performances in Lady Chatterley’s Lover (2015), Rocketman, and 1917.

      If Villeneuve selects Madden as the next James Bond, it would mark yet another instance of him transforming a talented actor into an international franchise star, much like he did with Chalamet in Dune. I believe Villeneuve’s knack for capturing that “lightning in a bottle” magic would be evident once more!

      Aaron Pierre – The Game Changer

      Another fan favorite for the role of James Bond is Aaron Pierre, who has amassed significant acting accolades recently with performances in Netflix’s Rebel Ridge, voice acting as Mufasa in Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King, and being cast as Green Lantern (John Stewart) in the HBO Max series Lanterns.

      Born in London and an alumnus of the esteemed LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts), Pierre would represent a groundbreaking choice for James Bond as he would be the first actor of Afro-Caribbean descent to take on this iconic role. The winner of the Austin Film Critics Association 2025 “Breakthrough Artist” award has the potential to redefine the James Bond character with his deep, resonant voice, commanding presence, and towering height of 6’3″.

      As a Shakespearean-trained actor, Pierre possesses the intensity and emotional depth necessary to portray Ian Fleming's morally complex Bond, shaped by a shadowy past involved in wartime espionage. This role could serve as a breakout opportunity for Pierre, and if Villeneuve chooses to break from tradition and cast him, he would become the first Bond of color.

      Paul Mescal – The Movie Star

      Irish actor Paul Mescal stands out as one of the most talented individuals on this list, with an Oscar nomination and a BAFTA win for his performance in Aftersun. Since then, he has made a mark in emotionally charged films like All of Us Strangers, Foe, and The History of Sound. His role as Lucius in Gladiator II alongside Denzel Washington has further solidified his status as a legitimate movie star and action hero.

      At 29, Mescal would be the youngest actor to play Bond, bringing a refreshing youthful perspective to the world of international espionage, luxury cars, and high-tech gadgets. Mescal has the potential to attract younger audiences to the Bond franchise with his modern portrayal of a charming, British bad-boy who enjoys fast cars, beautiful women, and his country.

      An Emmy-nominated actor for his role in Hulu's Normal People, he speaks Gaelic, plays the piano, and will portray William Shakespeare in the upcoming drama Hamnet. It's an understatement to say that Mescal is exceptionally talented, as he continues to showcase his remarkable natural ability in Hollywood. Additionally, Mescal is set to play Paul McCartney in two upcoming Beatles biopics from the perspectives of Ringo Starr and George Harrison, directed by Oscar-winner Sam Mendes. Either of these roles could