The acclaimed British actress believes her Slow Horses co-star has the charisma and acting ability to become the next 007.
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — November 4, 2026. British actress Kristin Scott Thomas has publicly expressed her support for Jack Lowden as a potential successor to Daniel Craig in the James Bond franchise. The acclaimed performer, who works alongside Lowden in the Apple TV espionage series Slow Horses, praised his acting ability and distinctive personality during an interview with The Times. Her comments have intensified speculation surrounding one of cinema’s most anticipated casting decisions, although Amazon MGM Studios has not officially announced who will portray the legendary British secret agent.
Scott Thomas, known internationally for her performances in The English Patient, Four Weddings and a Funeral and Darkest Hour, believes Lowden possesses qualities that could translate effectively into the Bond universe. Asked whether her colleague might become the next 007, she acknowledged having no privileged knowledge of the decision but expressed confidence in his suitability. She described him as charismatic, mischievous and exceptionally talented, emphasizing the personal qualities that distinguish his screen presence. Her endorsement reflects professional admiration rather than confirmation of any casting agreement.
The two actors have developed an established working relationship through Slow Horses, the espionage drama adapted from Mick Herron’s novels. Scott Thomas portrays Diana Taverner, a senior MI5 official navigating the political complexities of British intelligence, while Lowden plays River Cartwright, an ambitious agent whose career has been derailed by professional mistakes. Their interactions contribute to a series that combines espionage, psychological tension and dark humor. Lowden’s performance has demonstrated his ability to balance physical action with emotional vulnerability and understated comedy, qualities that could be relevant to a contemporary interpretation of Bond.
At 36, the Scottish actor has developed a varied career across cinema, television and theater. His film credits include Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, Mary Queen of Scots and Benediction, performances that have demonstrated his versatility across historical drama and character-driven storytelling. He is also set to portray Mr. Darcy in Netflix’s new adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. These roles have strengthened his international visibility without limiting him to a single cinematic identity, an important consideration for a franchise whose leading actor must sustain audience interest across multiple productions.
Lowden has addressed the speculation cautiously. In a recent interview with GQ, he acknowledged that being mentioned for the role was flattering but declined to contribute further to the rumors. Reports suggest that he has participated in screen tests alongside fellow actors Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor, although the studio has not publicly confirmed the identities of all candidates. His measured response illustrates the discretion surrounding the selection process, particularly when unofficial reports can generate considerable expectations before contractual negotiations are completed.
Competition for the role has attracted substantial media attention. Turner has emerged as another frequently discussed possibility, particularly following reports that he attended a screen test at Bray Studios in Berkshire on October 30. British tabloids have also connected his departure from a production company with preparations for a possible Bond commitment. However, these developments remain circumstantial and do not establish that Turner has secured the part. The competing endorsements and reports demonstrate how speculation can intensify even when the production company has released no definitive casting information.
The next installment represents a significant creative transition for the franchise. Canadian filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, whose credits include Arrival, Blade Runner 2049 and the Dune films, will direct the production, while Peaky Blinderscreator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay. Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman are overseeing the project for Amazon MGM Studios. Pascal previously indicated that an official casting announcement could arrive before the end of 2026, while emphasizing that the selection process requires considerable care.
The production will also be the first Bond film developed under Amazon MGM’s expanded creative control following the transition away from longtime franchise custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. Daniel Craig’s departure after No Time to Die in 2021 concluded an era characterized by greater emotional complexity and narrative continuity. Selecting his successor therefore involves more than choosing an actor with the appropriate appearance or physical abilities. The filmmakers must determine how Bond’s identity, personality and cinematic relevance will evolve for contemporary audiences while retaining the character’s established appeal.
Scott Thomas’s endorsement is especially interesting because her experience in Slow Horses places her within a modern espionage narrative that differs considerably from Bond’s traditional cinematic formula. The series emphasizes institutional dysfunction, complicated relationships and imperfect intelligence professionals rather than presenting espionage exclusively through glamour and spectacle. Lowden’s ability to navigate those elements may explain why his colleague considers him suited to a character increasingly expected to combine action with psychological depth.
For now, the identity of the next James Bond remains unresolved. No official release date or filming schedule has been confirmed by Amazon MGM Studios, despite reports suggesting production could begin in 2027. Scott Thomas’s comments add another respected professional perspective to the debate, but the final decision rests with the filmmakers and studio executives. As the franchise prepares for its next chapter, the central challenge is finding an actor capable of preserving Bond’s cinematic legacy while giving the character a distinctive identity for a new generation.
Phoenix24: Beyond the screen, the evolution of a cinematic legend. / Más allá de la pantalla, la evolución de una leyenda del cine.