**Jacob Elordi in Talks to Become the Next James Bond Amid Franchise Reboot**
Key Takeaways:
- Jacob Elordi has reportedly met with Amazon/MGM and director Denis Villeneuve about playing James Bond.
- If cast, Elordi would be the youngest actor to portray 007 in the franchise’s history.
- Bond 26 is expected to begin filming in late 2026 or early 2027, with a formal casting decision due by mid-2026.
London, UK — “James Bond” is trending after reports emerged that rising star Jacob Elordi is being seriously considered to take over the iconic role of 007 in the upcoming franchise reboot, backed by Amazon/MGM. The buzz follows a report released within the past 48 hours indicating that Elordi has held private meetings with director Denis Villeneuve and key decision-makers from Amazon/MGM about the role.
Oscar Nominee Jacob Elordi Emerges as Frontrunner
The latest surge in attention began after journalist Roger Friedman confirmed fresh developments in Elordi’s pursuit of Bond. According to his January 22nd report, the Australian actor, who this week received his first Oscar nomination for “Frankenstein,” is now a top contender for the role. Sources say Elordi has met quietly with Denis Villeneuve, the director rumored to direct Bond 26, and executives at Amazon/MGM in recent months.
This matches earlier reporting from October 2025 by World of Reel, which referenced internal movement within Amazon/MGM to consider Elordi for Bond. While no official offer has been extended, insiders say Elordi is on a shortlist and is expected to screen test in 2026. If chosen, the 28-year-old would become the youngest actor ever to portray the legendary British spy.
Strategic Reboot Plan with New Tone and Direction
Amazon’s acquisition of MGM in 2021 placed them in the driving seat for the next Bond era. Early reports suggest Amazon is targeting a complete franchise reset with a younger Bond and a shift in tone more aligned with the original Ian Fleming novels. Crucially, Steven Knight, known for “Peaky Blinders” and “Eastern Promises,” is writing the screenplay for Bond 26, with a vision reportedly centered on a grittier, more grounded origin story.
The reboot approach includes a potential ’50s or ’60s Cold War-era setting and a deeper exploration into Bond’s early life in the Royal Navy and recruitment into MI6. This aligns with Elordi’s detached, imposing on-screen persona — attributes that several insiders say reflect the ‘brutal but charming’ balance Fleming originally penned.
Physicality has also played a role in Elordi’s consideration. Standing at 6’5″, he embodies the modern Bond image that Amazon reportedly desires: stylish but capable of delivering lethal force. According to insiders, one character requirement emphasized to agents looking for talent is “he must look like he can kill you with his bare hands.”
What This Means for the Bond Franchise
The impact of this potential casting is enormous. Not only would Elordi’s selection mark a generational shift for the franchise, it could also position the next set of Bond films to target a younger demographic — particularly appealing to Gen Z and millennial viewers who are more familiar with Elordi from hits like HBO’s “Euphoria.”
More significantly, this represents a broader strategic play by Amazon to revitalize a decades-old franchise with fresh creative direction and global star power. With Villeneuve and Knight already attached behind the scenes, expectations are high for a Bond film that blends artistry, prestige, and commercial viability.
A decision is reportedly scheduled for mid-2026, with production for Bond 26 aiming for a late 2026 or early 2027 shoot. The announcement of casting is expected to make global headlines and set the tone for the franchise’s next decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is James Bond trending?
A: Reports indicate that actor Jacob Elordi is in serious talks to become the next James Bond, making him the youngest 007 ever if cast.
Q: What happens next?
A: Final casting for the new James Bond is expected by mid-2026, with filming slated to begin in late 2026 or early 2027.
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