Josh O’Connor for Bond? Daniel Craig Thinks He’s the One – Here’s Why

The search for the next James Bond continues, and Daniel Craig is making his preference known. According to an insider, the actor who played 007 from Casino Royale through No Time to Die has voiced strong support for British actor Josh O’Connor, citing his “charm and grit” as ideal qualities for the role.

The tipster revealed that Craig, 57, has been particularly impressed with O’Connor since his critically acclaimed performance in The Crown and sees him as a fresh yet classic fit for the iconic British spy. “Daniel has all but publicly announced he thinks Josh O’Connor should be the next 007,” the source said. “Josh brings a different energy to the table, reminiscent of how Bond was described in the original Ian Fleming books.”

Craig’s endorsement carries significant weight in the franchise’s inner circle. As a trusted confidant of longtime Bond producer Barbara Broccoli, his opinion heavily influences the casting process. “Barbara Broccoli is by far [Craig’s] closest friend in the movie business and takes everything he says incredibly seriously, especially when it comes to giant casting decisions like this,” the insider shared.

At 34, O’Connor is seen as the perfect age to begin a long tenure as Bond. With a rigorous fitness regimen, the actor could easily transform into the physically imposing yet suave secret agent. The source added, “This role is really about charm and grit, and Josh has both of those in spades. He’s also at the right stage in his career to start this journey and put in a solid decade-and-a-half like Daniel did.”

Rumors about who will take up the mantle have been swirling for months, as Bond producers and Amazon MGM Studios weigh their creative options. O’Connor’s name now appears to be at the top of the list, and Craig’s endorsement may help push him closer to landing the role. Although the next Bond film—reportedly the franchise’s 26th installment—has yet to be officially announced, insiders suggest that once the producers and Amazon resolve their creative differences, a Thanksgiving 2026 release date could be within reach.

In the meantime, fans are left speculating, with Craig’s high praise lending considerable momentum to Josh O’Connor’s candidacy. If Craig’s words hold sway, the future of James Bond may be about to take an intriguing new turn.