Movies
Josh O’Connor has already been rumored to be the next James Bond, but a new decision at Amazon could increase his odds.
The race to become the next James Bond has taken yet another intriguing turn, and rising star Josh O’Connor may have just edged closer to getting his license to kill. A fresh report suggests Amazon is courting top-tier producer Amy Pascal to take creative oversight of the storied franchise — and O’Connor’s recent collaboration with Pascal could give him a distinct edge. Add to that a reported nod of approval from none other than Daniel Craig himself, and the stars might be aligning for O’Connor’s turn as 007.
Report: Amazon wants Amy Pascal to oversee James Bond Franchise
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Amazon — which now owns MGM and, by extension, a stake in Bond’s future — wants Pascal to oversee the franchise’s next phase alongside Harry Potter producer David Heyman. If Pascal steps in, it’s plausible she would champion Josh O’Connor, whom she’s already entrusted with a leading role. Known for building long-term creative partnerships, Pascal’s involvement could tilt the scales in O’Connor’s favor.
Pascal, the force behind blockbusters like Spider-Man: No Way Home and Little Women, also produced the highly anticipated tennis drama Challengers, which stars O’Connor alongside Zendaya and Mike Faist. The film generated serious buzz, showcasing O’Connor in a physically demanding, emotionally charged role — the kind that Bond producers have gravitated toward in recent years.
O’Connor, 35, first made waves with his Emmy-winning portrayal of Prince Charles in The Crown and has since proven his versatility in critically acclaimed films like God’s Own Country. His mix of brooding intensity and emotional depth lines up with the modern Bond archetype — a far cry from the suave, quip-heavy versions of the past. He also possesses the physicality required for action-heavy roles, as evidenced in Challengers, where he plays a professional athlete.
Daniel Craig reportedly endorsed Josh O’Connor as James Bond
But perhaps the biggest boost to O’Connor’s Bond chances comes from Daniel Craig himself. A recent report from UsWeekly claims Craig has all but endorsed O’Connor as a worthy successor, following their work together on Wake Up Dead Man, the upcoming third installment in Rian Johnson’s Knives Out series. Details about O’Connor’s role remain under wraps, but the mere fact that Craig and O’Connor share the screen — and that Craig is reportedly impressed — is sure to elevate speculation.
Craig’s support carries weight. His 15-year tenure as Bond redefined the character, and while the final casting decision remains with Amazon, Craig’s influence is not to be underestimated.
With Amy Pascal potentially steering the ship, Craig voicing support, and O’Connor’s star rising fast, the odds of him donning the tuxedo and Walther PPK have never looked better. While no official announcements have been made, the Bond rumor mill is in overdrive — and Josh O’Connor’s name is suddenly one of the hottest in the mix.
If this trajectory continues, we may soon see O’Connor swapping tennis rackets and murder mysteries for martinis and spy gadgets.
