Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Jack Lowden Considered for Bond; Villeneuve to Direct

8/12/2026

28 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Presenter Richard Osman said 36-year-old Scottish actor Jack Lowden is considered for the next James Bond.
Casting director Nina Gold leads Bond search while producer Amy Pascal expects the actor’s name by year-end.
Director Denis Villeneuve will direct film, with production slated for 2027 and release in 2028.
Polling shows voters favor Tom Hardy and Henry Cavill, although Osman says they have been wrong on Bond choice except Pierce Brosnan.

History

Historical Context

United Artists launched the James Bond franchise in 1962 with Dr. No, casting Sean Connery and earning $59.5 million worldwide after Harry Saltzman’s $1 million investment and Albert R. Broccoli’s distribution deal. That bold gamble, which cemented Bond’s global appeal, now echoes in Nina Gold’s search, where Amy Pascal and Denis Villeneuve weigh Jack Lowden against Tom Hardy and Henry Cavill for the next lead.

1 of 2

Story summary

Presenter Richard Osman said 36-year-old Scottish actor Jack Lowden is considered for the next James Bond.
Casting director Nina Gold leads Bond search while producer Amy Pascal expects the actor’s name by year-end.
Director Denis Villeneuve will direct film, with production slated for 2027 and release in 2028.
Polling shows voters favor Tom Hardy and Henry Cavill, although Osman says they have been wrong on Bond choice except Pierce Brosnan.

1 / 2