Denis Villeneuve teased an announcement about the next James Bond actor but stopped short of revealing who will play 007 at the LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles.
The director, who is taking over the franchise after Daniel Craig’s departure, made the comments while accepting an honour at Saturday night’s event.
Villeneuve told the audience he had news to share with the backing of his new partners at Amazon before saying: “I will reveal to you tonight who will be the next James Bond.”
He began to announce the actor’s name, then halted and joked: “And I will stop right now because Amy Pascal is about to have a heart attack.” The remark drew laughter, but no identity was disclosed.
James Bond casting search continues
Speaking to reporters on the red carpet, Villeneuve said he was having a “great time” screening actors for the forthcoming film, although he did not name any candidates.
The search for the next Bond has attracted significant attention, with Callum Turner and Jack Lowden believed to have been involved in an earlier round of screen tests.
Robert Pattinson, Nicholas Hoult and Josh O’Connor have also reportedly tested for the role more recently. Amazon MGM Studios has not officially announced its choice.
Villeneuve will direct the next Bond film, the first instalment since Craig completed his five-film run as the character in 2021’s No Time to Die.
The screenplay is being written by Steven Knight, with Amy Pascal and David Heyman producing. Villeneuve is also preparing for the December 18 release of Dune: Part Three before turning to the Bond franchise.
