Sam Heughan, known for his role in Outlander, may have to let go of his dream of becoming James Bond. Although he was a fan favorite in a 2022 poll on JustJared.com, he is no longer a top contender for the 007 role.
According to new odds from FreeBets.com, Aaron Taylor-Johnson is now the leading choice to replace Daniel Craig as Bond. The English actor, famous for his roles in Kick-Ass, Bullet Train, and Avengers: Age of Ultron, reportedly impressed Bond producers during a secret screen test.
A source told The Sun, “Aaron went for a screen test to be the next Bond in September, and producers and Barbara [Broccoli] loved him.” With odds of 5/4, Taylor-Johnson is now the top pick for the role.
Irish actor Paul Mescal is also being considered, with odds of 2/1. Mescal has received praise for his work in Normal People and earned an Oscar nomination for Aftersun. However, some experts believe his relatively new status in Hollywood may be a disadvantage compared to more well-known actors.
Heughan has been linked to the Bond role before. He revealed in 2021 that he auditioned for Bond in 2006 when Daniel Craig was cast. He said he feels the right age and experience now to take on the role and would love the chance.
Other actors in the race for Bond include Theo James (7/2), James Norton (7/1), and Henry Cavill (10/1). Rege-Jean Page and Damson Idris are also being considered.
In addition, the next James Bond theme song is generating excitement. Pop artist Chappell Roan is leading the odds at 9/4, followed by Dua Lipa (9/2) and Lana Del Rey (9/2). Brit Award winner Raye is a fan favorite, but her odds stand at 5/1.