Josh O'Connor has described being linked to the role of James Bond as a "bizarre pinch-me moment," while former 007 Pierce Brosnan has offered warm words for rival contender Callum Turner. O'Connor spoke to the BBC on Tuesday at the opening of the Everyman Theatre's new education and community centre in his hometown of Cheltenham.
"To be considered in that same sort of bracket is extraordinary," he said. He did not confirm whether he had taken part in any auditions, adding, "There is nothing to say beyond that."
Brosnan, who played Bond in four films between 1995 and 2002, told Vanity Fair that he is now just "the man in the street who is eager to see who is going to play this epic role of cinematic history." Regarding Turner, he said: "Callum Turner is someone I've worked with, and he's so strong." The two worked together on The Only Living Boy in New York in 2017.
Brosnan added that all the men on the current list are "actors I admire." He also praised director Denis Villeneuve, calling him an "iconoclastic director" and predicting that "we are going to be blown away." The untitled film is in development, with Steven Knight writing, Amy Pascal and David Heyman producing, and Villeneuve directing.
Pascal has told Deadline that she expects a casting announcement by the end of the year. Turner and Jack Lowden are reported to be the frontrunners.
O'Connor won an Emmy for playing Prince Charles in The Crown, and has since appeared in films including The Mastermind and The History of Sound. The search for the next Bond remains one of the most discussed topics in Hollywood.
Fans and critics alike are closely monitoring every update from the production team. As the industry waits for the official announcement, the speculation continues to grow.
Whether it is O'Connor, Turner, or another rising star, the pressure to fill the shoes of the legendary spy is immense. The legacy of the franchise ensures that whoever is chosen will be thrust into global stardom overnight.
For now, the actors involved remain focused on their current projects while the world watches.