Scottish actor Jack Lowden is among the final contenders preparing to screen test for the role of James Bond.
Film trade publications report that the Slow Horses star is to have been invited to take part in the final round of auditions as Amazon MGM Studios moves closer to choosing Daniel Craig’s successor as 007.
Deadline reports that screen tests could begin as early as Friday, 23 October, and continue into next week, with at least four actors believed to have received offers to test for the role.
Lowden, 36, is among three names understood to be involved alongside Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor, although the identities of the candidates have not been officially confirmed.
The Hollywood Reporter has separately named Lowden and Turner among those in contention and reports that the tests are taking place in London this weekend.
It represents the clearest indication yet that Lowden is seriously in the running to become the next Bond after months of speculation linking him with the part.
The actor, who grew up in the Scottish Borders, has become internationally known through his role as MI5 agent River Cartwright in the Apple TV+ spy series Slow Horses, starring alongside Gary Oldman.
His other credits include Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, Mary Queen of Scots and Benediction, while he has also built a successful stage career.
Lowden’s Slow Horses co-star Oldman has previously talked up his suitability for Bond, adding to speculation around the Scottish actor.
The final Bond screen tests will assess candidates across areas including stunt work, their presence in front of the camera and dialogue.
Director Denis Villeneuve, whose credits include Dune, Dune: Part Two and Blade Runner 2049, is directing the next Bond film.
Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay, while Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing.
Amazon MGM Studios took creative control of the Bond franchise following an agreement with longtime custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson in 2025.
Daniel Craig played Bond across five films beginning with Casino Royale in 2006 and ending with No Time to Die in 2021.
Deadline reports that, even if the forthcoming screen tests are completed next week, no final decision has yet been made, although an announcement is widely expected before the end of 2026. It has not been confirmed whether Lowden will return for the forthcoming eight series of Slow Horses.
If Lowden were ultimately selected, he would become the latest Scot to play 007 after Sean Connery, who established the character on the big screen in Dr No in 1962.