The James Bond franchise is at a crossroads. After Daniel Craig's iconic run as 007, the question on everyone's lips is: Who's next? The stakes are higher than ever, with Amazon now holding the creative reins. Enter Harris Dickinson, a rising star whose name has suddenly surged to the top of the Bond contender list. But is he the right man for the job?
According to James Bond expert Mark O'Connell, author of Catching Bullets – Memoirs of a Bond Fan, Dickinson is a strong candidate to don the tuxedo. O'Connell, who has insider knowledge endorsed by Barbara Broccoli herself, revealed during an LBC interview that the next Bond will likely be announced by summer 2025. Dickinson, known for his roles in Triangle of Sadness and The King's Man, brings a mix of action chops and dramatic depth that could make him a standout 007.
While not yet a household name, Dickinson's resume is impressive. His performance in The King's Man showcased his ability to handle espionage and high-stakes action, while his work in Babygirl alongside Nicole Kidman proved his versatility. As O'Connell put it, “Keep an eye on him.”
Not everyone agrees on Dickinson's frontrunner status. Graham Rye, editor of 007 Magazine, has thrown his support behind Stuart Martin, a lesser-known Scottish actor from Miss Scarlet and Rebel Moon. Rye believes Martin's charm and screen presence make him the ideal choice for Amazon's reboot.
Meanwhile, fan-favorite Henry Cavill remains in the conversation, alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who has long been rumored as a potential Bond. The debate over who should take on the role has sparked heated discussions among fans and experts alike, proving that the legacy of 007 is as divisive as it is beloved.
Pierce Brosnan, who played Bond from 1995 to 2002, has weighed in on the franchise's future. He emphasized the importance of keeping Bond British, calling it “a given.” Brosnan also expressed optimism about Amazon's involvement, urging the studio to handle the character with “dignity, imagination, and respect.”
On the other hand, Timothy Dalton, who portrayed Bond in the late '80s, shared his concerns. He praised Barbara Broccoli's leadership, stating, “Barbara is one of the best women in the whole world. She knows what she's doing.” Dalton's comments highlight the delicate balance between honoring Bond's legacy and embracing new creative directions.
As the James Bond franchise enters uncharted territory under Amazon's stewardship, the choice of the next 007 will set the tone for its future. Harris Dickinson's emergence as a top contender signals a potential shift toward fresh, lesser-known talent. But with so many voices in the mix, the decision is anything but straightforward.
The search for the next James Bond is more than just casting—it's about defining the future of a cultural icon. Harris Dickinson's potential selection reflects a desire to modernize the franchise while staying true to its roots. However, the debate over who should wield the Walther PPK underscores the challenges of pleasing both die-hard fans and newcomers.
As we await the official announcement, one thing is clear: the next Bond will need to embody the perfect blend of charisma, grit, and sophistication. Do you think Harris Dickinson has what it takes to fill Daniel Craig's shoes? Or should the role go to a more established star like Henry Cavill? The conversation is just heating up.
