If the words “shaken, not stirred” mean anything to you, you’re most likely aware that the search for the next James Bond has already begun. While the next Bond film isn’t expected until 2028, Bodog already has live odds on which actor will inherit this iconic movie franchise.
Whoever takes on the 007 role will have the unenviable task of living up to Daniel Craig, who rightly features in our best ever casino movie scenes list. The British actor redefined the Bond franchise over the past two decades and is now passing the torch to the next generation. No one knows for certain who will be cast, but it’s safe to assume they’ll be suave, sophisticated and dangerously charming.
With Amazon having recently spent over $1 billion for full creative control, there’s been endless rumours and speculation about which actor will get the keys to Bond’s Aston Martin. Let’s review the current betting market and highlight some of the top contenders to play the world’s most famous spy.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson +150
Just in case you don’t follow the latest Hollywood gossip, the word on the street is that Aaron Taylor-Johnson has the inside track to becoming the next James Bond. Known for his roles in movies like Kick-Ass, Godzilla and 28 Years Later, the 35-year-old Englishman is the current betting favourite to take on the 007 mantle.
While Taylor-Johnson has downplayed the possibility of him landing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, that hasn’t stopped Bond fans from being convinced he’ll become the next in a long line of cinematic secret agents. They were quick to point out that the actor recently announced a brand deal with Omega, which just happens to be the type of watch James Bond has worn for the past 30 years on the big screen.
We’re still a long way from any formal announcement being made, but it’s clear that this talented actor is in the running for the franchise’s titular role. If the buzz can be believed, placing a bet on Aaron Taylor-Johnson could be a quick way to score some easy money.
H2: Callum Turner +350
He may not be a household name just yet, but Callum Turner is a versatile actor who’s built a reputation for delivering gritty, powerful performances. The London-born actor played Theseus Scamander in the past two Fantastic Beasts films, and also gave excellent dramatic performances in Green Room, Assassin’s Creed and the recent World War II miniseries, Masters of the Air.
Originally listed as a longshot to play the legendary 007 character, Turner’s name has shot up the list in recent months. He’s since become a surprise frontrunner for the role and could very well be the next British actor to earn a licence to kill with the James Bond franchise. There’s even talk of his fiancée, pop star Dua Lipa, signing on as the next Bond Girl.
While Amazon is said to be looking for someone a bit younger to take the reins of the Bond franchise, this may be a two-horse race between him and Taylor-Johnson. At +350 odds and with momentum on his side, Turner offers great betting value to become the next 007.
Henry Cavill +1000
If we look a bit further down the odds board, a familiar name appears in Henry Cavill. In addition to portraying Superman in several DC films, the actor has headlined a number of major action movies, including The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Mission: Impossible – Fallout and Argylle.
Cavill has long been mentioned as a potential heir for the Bond franchise. The actor is polished, charismatic and has the screen presence befitting 007. He brings a fair amount of Hollywood star power and fans would have no trouble picturing him in Bond’s tuxedo with a Walther PPK at his side.
At +1000, the Superman actor would deliver a massive payout if cast in the role, but there’s a reason for his long odds. At 42 years old, Cavill is far older than the casting direction the franchise is said to be leaning toward. He’s also very well-known from his work in the DC Extended Universe, which some executives may fear would overshadow the coveted 007 role.
Timothée Chalamet +2000
When it comes to the hottest actors in Hollywood, Timothée Chalamet is right up there with today’s biggest stars. He may not be British (born in New York City), but there’s no doubt he has the talent and range to step into 007’s shoes. At 29, he’s the perfect age to lead the Bond franchise into a new era.
Chalamet has built up his reputation in Hollywood circles over the past few years. The young American actor has already shown he can lead a major action franchise with the Dune films. He’s also delivered strong dramatic performances in films like Little Women and Call Me by Your Name, which earned him an Oscar nomination at just 22 years old.
Currently listed at +2000 to become the next James Bond, it’s clear that Chalamet is considered a longshot to play the part of 007. Having said that, it’s worth pointing out that renowned director Denis Villeneuve has signed on to direct at least the first Bond film in the new era, since the two worked closely together on the set of Dune. Could that be enough for Chalamet to get his foot in the door?
The Future of 007: What’s Next?
The search for the next James Bond will officially begin in 2026, only after director Denis Villeneuve completes shooting on the third Dune film. Until then, we’ve got some time to speculate and place some bets on who will be tasked with breathing life into this iconic character. We’ve only covered a tiny portion of the actors in the running for the 007 role, so check out Bodog’s Entertainment Betting section for the full list of options. This is a chance to finally cash in on your movie knowledge by correctly predicting who will become the next Bond…James Bond.