Robert Pattinson Screen Tests for James Bond Role

Multiple actors in contention for 007

Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, Josh O'Connor, and Nicholas Hoult are all currently being considered for the role.

Jack Lowden is currently considered the favorite to play the character. Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor are also among the five actors in contention.

Theo James and Harry Styles are also reportedly still under consideration for the part.

Denis Villeneuve takes the helm as director

Denis Villeneuve is directing the new James Bond film and has been present for the screen tests. He directed three Dune movies and cast Robert Pattinson in the final film of that trilogy. It is speculated that Villeneuve may have a deal to direct more than one James Bond film.

Amazon MGM Studios manages the franchise

Amazon acquired MGM Studios, the long-time backer of the Bond franchise, in January 2025. The studio assumed creative control of the James Bond series in February 2025, with producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman attached to the next installment. Amazon and MGM are the production company for the upcoming James Bond films.

Amazon MGM Studios has not provided a comment regarding the reported screen tests for Robert Pattinson. Amazon has declined to comment on the screen test reports. There has been no official announcement regarding a production timeline or casting decision for the next James Bond film.

Barbara Broccoli is no longer involved with the James Bond franchise. It is speculated that Amazon and MGM may use shorter-term contracts for the Bond role to allow the franchise to operate like a modern series. Jack Lowden is set to play Mr Darcy in an upcoming Netflix Pride and Prejudice series.

Steven Knight confirms character has been cast

Screenwriter Steven Knight confirmed to Radio 4’s Today programme that the new Bond character has been cast. Knight indicated he is writing the new Bond film with a specific actor in mind, noting that while it makes writing easier, he must focus on the character rather than the actor.

Pattinson balances Batman and Dune commitments

Pattinson is currently in London filming The Batman Part II. The production is on hiatus under director Matt Reeves.

While in London, Pattinson performed a screen test for the role of James Bond. Director Denis Villeneuve personally requested the screen test for the actor while in London.

Pattinson and Villeneuve recently collaborated on the upcoming film Dune: Part 3. This film is scheduled for release on December 18.

Pattinson maintains a busy professional life with commitments to both the Batman and Dune franchises.

Legacy and requirements of the Bond character

Daniel Craig concluded his tenure as James Bond after five films, ending with No Time to Die in 2021. His 2012 film Skyfall was the first in the franchise to earn over $1 billion worldwide.

Retired casting director Debbie McWilliams said it is "absolutely essential that [Bond] retains a total enigma". She added that the audience should know as little as possible about the character's personal life.

Christopher Nolan previously stated the Bond influence on his 2020 film Tenet was intentional. Pattinson’s career includes roles in Tenet, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the Twilight films, The Odyssey, The Drama, and Primetime.

Josh O'Connor describes the casting process

Josh O’Connor told The Hollywood Reporter that being considered for the Bond role was an "incredibly bizarre pinch me moment".