James Bond author Charlie Higson predicts people will be angry whatever choice producers make for Daniel Craig’s successor. Bookmakers currently favour Jack Lowden, with Callum Turner and Jacob Elordi also listed among the contenders for the 007 role.
Daniel Craig faced complaints about his blond hair and rugged appearance when he was cast, but his 2006 debut, Casino Royale, defied expectations. By the end of his 2021 run, Craig was one of the franchise’s most popular Bonds.
Higson has called Lowden an “unconvincing” choice, described Elordi as “too tall” and Turner’s looks as “unconventional.” He said Bond could be Black but should not be a woman, arguing the character represents manhood. Screenwriter Steven Knight said the script was written partly with the chosen actor in mind, but declined to say when he learned who it was. Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman and director Denis Villeneuve made the decision.