Gary Oldman’s James Bond Vote Goes to Jack Lowden

Noah Miller 09/07/2026

The Next Secret Agent: Who Will Steal the Crown of 007?

The cinematic world is holding its breath, waiting for the next evolution of the James Bond franchise. With director Denis Villeneuve having just delivered a masterful adaptation of Dune: Part Three, all eyes are now fixed on who will step into the iconic tuxedo to portray 007. This next incarnation marks a significant moment, particularly as it is the first Bond film produced without the involvement of Barbara Broccoli, raising the stakes for the casting decision.

While the studio remains delightfully cryptic about its choices, a handful of actors have consistently emerged as frontrunners. Among them, the name Jack Lowden, star of the critically acclaimed series Slow Horses, has been pegged as a major contender. The suspense surrounding the choice has only deepened as industry insiders weigh the potential of different talents.

A Vote from the Master

Adding a dose of insider drama, the legendary Gary Oldman, a co-star in the Slow Horses series, has weighed in on the speculation. Oldman claims that the choice for the next 007 has already been made by Amazon/MGM, though the studio is understandably keeping the details under wraps. While he maintains he doesn’t know the specific identity, his vote is clearly cast for Lowden. “It’s been rumored that Lowden is on the shortlist…we’re going to find out pretty soon, aren’t we? Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack,” Oldman shared.

This endorsement provides tantalizing clues. One might argue that the studio’s silence is strategic. With Villeneuve preparing to launch a press tour for Dune: Part Three, announcing the Bond actor too early risks overshadowing the epic scale of the sci-fi masterpiece. It is a compelling theory that the reveal will be timed just before New Year’s Eve, perhaps during the week between Christmas and New Year’s.

The Case for the New Face

The question then becomes: why Jack Lowden? At thirty-six, Lowden is close to the age Daniel Craig began his tenure as Bond in Casino Royale. While some speculate on a younger actor, there is a compelling argument for grounding the next Bond in an actor with established gravitas. Lowden, while not yet a household name, possesses the kind of raw ruthlessness that could redefine the role for a new generation of audiences.

History shows that casting unknowns can be a gamble, but it has paid off. From Sean Connery in 1962 to George Lazenby and Roger Moore, the evolution of Bond has always involved actors who brought a distinct energy to the role. Choosing an actor who is known but not overly saturated—like Lowden—offers a fresh start without the massive baggage of expectation that comes with casting a global superstar.

Other names, such as Jack O’Connell, also emerge as strong possibilities, bringing a gritty intensity that could redefine the secret agent. Ultimately, while the fate of the next 007 remains to be seen, the anticipation is palpable. Whether it is Lowden, O’Connell, or another talent, the next incarnation of James Bond promises to be an event worthy of the ultimate secret agent.