Jack Lowden has responded cautiously to reports linking him to the role of James Bond, describing the rumors as flattering while refusing to confirm whether he has been cast in the upcoming franchise film.
In an interview with British GQ published Monday, the 36-year-old actor said it was nice to be mentioned for the part but that he did not want to add to the speculation. The publication also noted his visible discomfort when asked about the film, which is being directed by Denis Villeneuve.
Lowden also addressed comments from his Slow Horses co-star Gary Oldman, who said in a September interview that the actor was on the shortlist and that the producers had already made their choice, although it had not yet been announced. Lowden called Oldman “a sweetheart” and said the praise was particularly meaningful, but added that he does not really listen to such reports.
The Hollywood Reporter reported in October that Lowden and Callum Turner were among the finalists for the role. The outlet said both actors were expected to take part in a final screen test before a decision was made. Deadline separately reported that two other actors received test offers, including Josh O’Connor, while the identity of the fourth candidate was not disclosed.
The next Bond will succeed Daniel Craig, who played the secret agent in five films, beginning with Casino Royale in 2006 and ending with No Time to Die in 2021. A source previously told Variety that the new actor would be younger than those who have played the character in the past.
Amazon MGM Studios’ next Bond film is being developed by Villeneuve and Steven Knight, the writer associated with Peaky Blinders. The role was first played on film by Sean Connery in Dr. No in 1962 and has since been portrayed by actors including George Lazenby, Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan.
Sources: Page Six.