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It's been four years since the last James Bond film, No Time To Die, ended with the words “James Bond will return” In those years since, we've seen a whole lot of speculation as to who'll take the baton from Daniel Craig and become the eighth James Bond to grace the silver screen.
While we don't have those answers just yet, and production has yet to begin, a director for the 26th James Bond movie has just been announced. We also know the producers in charge since Amazon snapped up the full distribution rights for the 50-year-old franchise in a whopping $8.5 billion deal. David Heyman, the producer of all eight Harry Potter films (and interior designer Rose Uniacke's husband) is teaming up with Amy Pascal, who produced several of the most recent Spider-Man movies as well as Greta Gerwig's Little Women remake to produce James Bond 26. We're keeping a (golden) eye on the latest. Here's what else we know so far about the newest spy movie.
Everything we know so far about the next James Bond movie
Who is Denis Villeneuve?
French-Canadian film director Denis Villeneuve has officially been announced as the new James Bond director. Denis is most recently known for directing 2021's Dune: Part One and 2024's Dune: Part Two starring Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya. He's also behind Blade Runner 2049, so is no stranger to a high-stakes franchise.
‘Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery,’ Denis said in a recent statement.
He added, 'I'm a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honour. Amy, David, and I are absolutely thrilled to bring him back to the screen. Thank you to Amazon MGM Studios for their trust.”
Who'll be the next James Bond?
The billion-dollar question. After Daniel Craig hung his 007 badge following a five-movie stint as the super spy, lovers of the franchise have been speculating wildly. The bookies' current front runners seem to be everyone from Tom Hardy and Superman actor Henry Cavill to two Aarons; Aaron Taylor Johnson (who was in the most recent 28 Years Later as well as British classics like Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging) and rising star Aaron Pierre who's credentials include The Underground Railroad and Disney's Mufasa: The Lion King.
Is there a release date?
With no filming or production starting yet, we're likely going to wait a while. Denis Villeneuve is set to film the third in the Dune franchise Dune Messiah this summer for a December 2026 release. This could mean a 2027 release for Bond.
