The internet may have already selected its next 007, but according to one of Hollywood’s most connected sources, the martini is still very much unshaken. On February 24, 2026, in an episode of The Town, entertainment journalist Matt Belloni squashed all the rumors about the next Bond being cast. As rumors swirled for weeks about Australian heartthrob Jacob Elordi being secretly cast as the next Bond, Belloni was adamant that there was no such deal in the works.
Not only was there no deal in the works, but no one was even close. The first problem is that there is still no finished script. The screenwriting duties for what is being dubbed “Bond 26” by fans still rest in the capable hands of Steven Knight, best known for his work on the popular series Peaky Blinders.
James Bond casting rumors debunked
It has long been rumored in the film industry that the Bond producers do not cast their lead character until the final script is ready. This appears to still be true under the new Amazon MGM regime, with producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman now at the helm of the franchise.
Once the script is done, confirmed director Denis Villeneuve—currently in post-production on the upcoming Dune: Messiah—will start formal screen tests. Belloni also noted that fans should not expect any formal announcement before at least late spring or early summer 2026.
As for Elordi, Belloni expressed doubt about the actor due to optics and practicality. Elordi stands at 6’5”, and he wondered if he might be “too tall” to pass as a spy by “disappearing into the shadows.” There is also the issue of stardom. Elordi is now an Oscar nominee for his portrayal of Frankenstein. Committing to a potentially restrictive franchise deal might not be part of his current career path. The reported preference is for a “fresh face” in the 27-to-32-year-old range.
Theoretical frontrunners include Callum Turner as a dark horse contender for rising talent. Harris Dickinson is also included due to his traditional leading man looks. There is also Tom Holland, although his Spider-Man commitments might rule him out.
Bond remains officially unclaimed. The tuxedo is pressed. The Walther is holstered. But until there is a completed script, 007 remains a vacancy.
