Endless speculation continues to surround the casting of the next James Bond following Daniel Craig’s departure. A new development involving Slow Horses star Jack Lowden has intensified rumors that he may be the chosen successor for Agent 007.
Jack Lowden’s Absence from Slow Horses Season 8 Announcement Fuels Bond Rumors
Although Lowden has been considered a contender for some time, the recent announcement regarding the hit Apple TV+ series suggests he may be exiting the show. The renewal for an eighth season arrived ahead of season 6’s release on Wednesday, September 16, with production for season 7 already underway. Notably, the press release issued by Apple mentioned only Gary Oldman’s lead character Jackson Lamb and Diana Taverner, played by Kristin Scott Thomas, omitting Lowden’s character, River Cartwright.
Gary Oldman Hints Bond Decision Has Been Made
Lowden’s co-star Sir Gary Oldman added significant weight to the speculation during an appearance on Canada’s The Morning Show. Oldman stated:
“It’s been rumoured that [Jack Lowden is] on the shortlist. We’re going to find out pretty soon, aren’t we? Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack.”
Slow Horses Director Adam Randall Endorses Lowden for 007
Adam Randall, who directed the current season of Slow Horses, spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about Lowden’s suitability for the iconic role:
“I don’t know anything beyond what everybody else knows. I think you’ve seen from six seasons that he’d be pretty perfect. I love James Bond, and I love all the iterations of James Bond. Obviously, Daniel Craig and Sean Connery have sort of the tougher [style], but I also grew up with Roger Moore and that kind of winking to the audience. The thing that Jack can do so well is bring comedy and humor into the most serious moments. He can play it very straight, he’s an amazing drama actor, he can play action, but he can also always find the funny. It’s that combination that would make him a very good pick.”
Bond 26 Timeline and Other Contenders
Speculation about Craig’s replacement has been a dominant topic since he stepped down in 2021 after No Time to Die. Other actors frequently linked to the role include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Callum Turner, and Theo James, though James has since withdrawn from consideration.
While the next installment, commonly referred to as James Bond 26, has not received an official announcement, industry reports indicate a potential theatrical release window in 2028.
