TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Oscar-winning actor Gary Oldman hinted that the next actor to play James Bond may have already been chosen, although an official announcement has yet to be made.
Oldman, 68, made the revelation during an appearance on Canada’s The Morning Show, where he was asked about speculation surrounding his “Slow Horses” co-star Jack Lowden. “It’s been rumored that he’s on the shortlist,” said the British actor, as quoted by the Irish Star.
Oldman said the studio had already made its choice but had not announced it publicly. He also expressed support for Lowden, saying he had his “fingers crossed” that his co-star would get the iconic role.
While Jack has neither confirmed nor denied the James Bond rumor, his wife, Saoirse Ronan, 32, recently expressed interest in playing a Bond villain. “I want to go dark,” Saoirse told Empire last month, adding, “I said that I wanted to be a Bond villain and I’m dead serious.”
Lowden, 36, is among several actors who have been linked to the role following Daniel Craig’s departure as Bond after “No Time to Die” in 2021. Other names reportedly considered include Callum Turner, Harris Dickinson and Jacob Elordi.
The next Bond film will launch a new chapter for the franchise. Denis Villeneuve, known for directing “Dune,” is set to direct the film, while “Peaky Blinders” creator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay.
Despite Oldman’s comments, the identity of the next 007 has not been officially confirmed. His remarks have nevertheless fueled speculation over who will succeed Craig as the legendary British spy.
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