The Next James Bond: Could This Little-Known Brit Land the Iconic Role?

The hunt for the next James Bond has taken another unexpected turn. Just weeks after rumors swirled (and fizzled) about Aaron Taylor-Johnson screen-testing for 007, a new name has emerged — and he’s not exactly a household one. According to a well-placed source, relatively unknown British actor Scott Rose-Marsh might have quietly auditioned for the coveted role in late June.

Rose-Marsh, 37, is best known for small roles in “Krays: Code of Silence” and “Wolves of War”. He reportedly read sides from the 1995 Bond classic “GoldenEye”, possibly for newly hired franchise director Denis Villeneuve. There’s also speculation he may have tackled pages from the script being developed by “Peaky Blinders” creator Steven Knight for Bond 26.

The one piece of direction given before the cameras rolled? “Don’t impersonate a previous Bond,” the source told Rambling via The Hollywood Reporter.

Scott Rose-Marsh Rumored to Have Screen-Tested for Bond 26

Blue Fox Entertainment

If Rose-Marsh did in fact test, it could challenge a widely held theory that Amazon — which acquired the Bond franchise for a reported $1 billion — is seeking a 20-something 007 to appeal to younger audiences. Rose-Marsh is in his late 30s and, notably, a redhead — a first in Bond history.

There’s precedent for controversy over hair color in the franchise. When Daniel Craig, the first blond Bond, was announced in 2005, the backlash nearly caused an international incident among fans.

Neither Amazon nor Rose-Marsh’s publicist responded to The Hollywood Reporter’s request for comment, a smart move whether or not he’s been shaking martinis behind closed doors. But the whispers about his involvement have certainly fueled the already frenzied Bond speculation.

The Next James Bond Casting Contenders

The race to replace Daniel Craig has been ongoing for years, with favorites rising and falling in the betting markets. Here’s where some of the top contenders stand as of August 2025, according to William Hill Sports Book.

• Aaron Taylor-Johnson (5/4) – Once the frontrunner, the “Kick-Ass” star has the right action credentials and a strong fan base.
• Henry Cavill (2/1) – The “Man of Steel” actor has the look and experience, but may be in his mid-40s when the next Bond film releases in 2028.
• Callum Turner (11/2) – Recently boosted by his role in “Masters of the Air”, Turner fits the profile of a classic Bond casting choice.
• Theo James (8/1) – Fresh from Guy Ritchie’s “The Gentlemen”, James’ aristocratic swagger could translate well to MI6.
• Jack Lowden (9/1) – A potential nod to Bond’s Scottish roots, Lowden’s work in “Slow Horses” has earned him serious spy credentials.

Other names in the mix include Harris Dickinson, Aaron Pierre, James Norton, Tom Holland, “Bridgerton” hunk Regé-Jean Page, and Jacob Elordi. With Denis Villeneuve directing and Steven Knight writing, Bond 26 is slated for a 2028 release — leaving plenty of time for more surprises in the casting race.

Tell us! Who would you like to see become the next James Bond? Let us know in the comments below.

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