10 Popular “New James Bond” Candidates Ranked By How Exciting They Are

With Amazon reportedly taking creative control over the next James Bond film, speculation is heating up around who will step into the iconic role of 007. Recent reports suggest that Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi, and Harris Dickinson top the shortlist, but the fanbase has chimed in with many other intriguing choices. As social media buzz grows louder, here’s a rundown of ten popular contenders ranked by how exciting their casting would be.

10. Idris Elba: A Great Older Bond, But Too Old Now

Idris Elba has been a fan favorite for years and is known for commanding performances in The Wire, Luther, and The Suicide Squad. At 52, however, he’s the oldest candidate on the list and unlikely to fit Amazon’s rumored preference for a Bond in his late 20s or early 30s. While he’d make a fantastic seasoned 007, the timing isn’t right for Elba to take the mantle.

9. Tom Holland: Too Strongly Linked to Spider-Man

Tom Holland’s youth and charisma have earned him a spot on Amazon’s shortlist. Known worldwide as Spider-Man, Holland is a talented actor with a promising career including films like Uncharted and Cherry. However, his deep association with the beloved superhero may distract audiences, making him a risky pick despite his enthusiasm for the role.

8. Jacob Elordi: Popular Among Younger Fans

Australian actor Jacob Elordi has soared in popularity through Euphoria and films like Saltburn and Priscilla. Though not British, Elordi’s fresh face and charm could energize the franchise. Still, his connection to prior roles might overshadow a new identity as Bond, making him exciting but not a guaranteed fit.

7. Tom Hardy: A Gritty, Edgy Bond — If He Were Younger

Tom Hardy’s intense performances in Mad Max: Fury Road and Bronson show he could bring an unpredictable edge to Bond. Sadly, at 46, he’s likely outside the age range Amazon desires. Nonetheless, Hardy remains one of the most thrilling possibilities for a future Bond or even a memorable villain.

6. Harris Dickinson: The Fresh-Faced British Contender

Among the three frontrunners, Harris Dickinson stands out as the most exciting unknown. At 29, Dickinson’s roles in Triangle of Sadness and The Iron Claw prove his versatility. Unlike Holland or Elordi, he isn’t heavily typecast, making him an intriguing choice to play a young, emerging 007.

5. Henry Cavill: The Fan-Favorite Almost-Bond

Henry Cavill was famously the runner-up to Daniel Craig for Casino Royale and has long been a top fan pick. Now 42, Cavill could portray a Bond in his 30s with the right approach, but Amazon’s desire for younger actors may keep him out of the running. Still, fans hold out hope that the former Superman might don the tuxedo yet.

4. Theo James: Suave and Experienced

Theo James, known for Divergent and The Gentlemen, fits the Bond mold physically and stylistically. At 40, he might be slightly older than Amazon’s target age but could easily play a Bond in his 30s. James’s charisma and smooth presence would make him a worthy Bond and a star on the rise.

3. Dev Patel: A Rising Action Star

Dev Patel shocked critics with his action chops in Monkey Man (2024), which he also wrote and directed. Alongside acclaimed performances in Lion and The Green Knight, Patel combines depth and physicality. His momentum suggests he could be a Bond for a new generation, ready to lead for years to come.

2. Aaron Taylor-Johnson: Swagger and Style

Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been rumored for Bond for years and won fans over with his charismatic turn in Bullet Train. At 35, he blends youth with experience, starring in Kraven the Hunter and Nosferatu. His magnetic screen presence and confidence make him a top contender.

1. Aaron Pierre: The Intimidating Young Gun

At 31, Aaron Pierre is close in age to Amazon’s top picks but brings a mature, commanding presence that sets him apart. Known for Rebel Ridge and upcoming roles in the DC Universe, Pierre exudes the toughness and intensity Bond demands. He’s a dark horse favorite who could redefine the spy with a fresh, compelling take.

Conclusion:
As Amazon charts a new course for James Bond, the next 007 could come from a diverse pool of talent—ranging from established stars like Henry Cavill and Tom Hardy to rising British actors like Harris Dickinson and Aaron Pierre. Whether they seek youthful energy, seasoned gravitas, or a mix of both, fans have plenty to debate and anticipate. One thing is clear: the next Bond promises to be an exciting evolution of the legendary spy.