With confirmation that Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight will write the next James Bond film, speculation over Daniel Craig’s successor is at an all-time high.

As one of the most recognisable British franchises, casting James Bond remains one of the most challenging and culturally significant tasks in film.

When Daniel Craig was announced as the new 007 back in October 2005, fan reaction was sharply divided. That same month, BBC’s Have Your Say article, where readers shared their views, reflected the debate, with Raghav Gajanan from London expressing a sentiment many fans felt at the time:

“A big let down. Not to take away anything from Craig's acting abilities, but he simply is not James Bond. The look, hair, height are all wrong,” wrote Raghav. “Clive Owen or Hugh Jackman would have clearly been a better choice.”

Yet over time, Craig silenced the doubters, with Casino Royale earning widespread acclaim as a bold, gritty reinvention of the franchise. Now, speculation over who will become the next Bond is sparking conversation among fans worldwide.

According to BetMGM’s odds, the shortlist for the next James Bond is packed with talent and it’s unclear whether the pick will be more traditional or a modern take on the iconic character.

Below is a closer look at the leading candidates, their strengths, and the questions they face in stepping into one of cinema’s most demanding roles.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson - 3/4

Aaron Taylor-Johnson currently tops the list after recently becoming an Omega brand ambassador, the same watch brand worn by Bond in every film since 1995.

He has built a diverse career, from his intense performance in Nocturnal Animals to his action-hero turn in Kick-Ass, and most recently in 28 Years Later. Known for his ability to blend vulnerability with toughness, he’s shown he can handle both dramatic depth and physical roles.

But would that make him a good fit for the next James Bond? On one hand, his range and charisma could bring a fresh, layered take to the character; on the other, some might question whether he has the classic suaveness or star power for the role.

Henry Cavill - 3/1

Henry Cavill has long been a fan-favourite for Bond, thanks to his commanding presence and polished charm. From his world-saving feats as Superman in Man of Steel to the slick, ruthless spy he played in The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Cavill has proven he can handle action with style.

He brings the classic suave and physicality tied to the traditional 007, with hints of Connery’s toughness and Brosnan’s charisma. Still, some argue that his global fame and superhero legacy might make him too obvious a choice, risking the role becoming an extension of the Cavill brand.

Callum Turner - 9/2

Callum Turner has built a reputation for his emotionally complex performances in The Capture, Fantastic Beasts, and his lead role in the war drama Masters of the Air. He’s not the biggest name on the list, but there’s an elegance and quiet confidence to him that could suit a modern take on Bond.

The question is whether that can translate into the iconic presence James Bond demands. Turner has shown flashes of intensity, but 007’s persona requires more authority, something his past roles have rarely needed. Though a Bond role could see him break out of his typical restrained archetype.

Who else is on the shortlist?

Aaron Pierre (5/1), whose quietly commanding turn in Men has cemented him as a rising star. Harris Dickinson (5/1), previously seen in The King's Man (the prequel to the Kingsman series), brings a brooding intensity that adds depth to his boyish charm.

Jacob Elordi (13/2) continues to redefine his image, moving beyond Euphoria with his nuanced performance in Saltburn. Theo James (13/2) remains a reliable performer, his work in Divergent and The Rental, demonstrating a maturity that goes beyond his usual action-hero persona.

Together, they represent a new wave of promising talent with exciting careers ahead of them.

"It won’t be an easy decision choosing the next James Bond. It’s hard to say whether they’ll play it safe and revert back to a traditional Bond figure like Pierce Brosnan or Sean Connery," says Dan Towse, Brand Director at BetMGM.

He adds: "Henry Cavill brings that old-school suave, while Aaron Taylor-Johnson might offer a more layered take on 007, combining his toughness with his complex and vulnerable side. Then again, the producers could always surprise us with a less obvious choice, similar to Daniel Craig at the time."

As of August 7th, the latest James Bond actor odds from BetMGM were:

Currently, it’s unclear when the casting of the next James Bond will be revealed. Some sources believe the film could be released by the end of 2027. While the timeline remains uncertain, anticipation over who will wear the iconic tuxedo next will continue to rise.

Odds correct at time of publication but subject to change.