Nicholas Hoult and Robert Pattinson reportedly screen-tested for James Bond

Industry sources Deadline and Variety reported that actors Nicholas Hoult and Robert Pattinson have undergone secret screen tests for the upcoming James Bond film. Both performers are well-known Hollywood leads, with Hoult noted for roles in the X-Men series, Mad Max: Fury Road and the upcoming "Man Of Tomorrow," and Pattinson recognized for his work in the Harry Potter, Twilight and recent "The Batman" franchises, as well as upcoming projects such as "Dune: Part Three" directed by Denis Villeneuve, who is also attached to the Bond sequel.

The inclusion of two established stars marks a shift from earlier speculation that the role might go to a relatively unknown actor in his late 20s or early 30s. Amazon, which assumed creative control of the franchise last year, could be moving away from that approach, according to the reports.

Retired casting director Debbie McWilliams, who previously helped cast Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, told The Independent that maintaining the "total enigma" of Bond is essential, emphasizing that audiences should know little about the actor’s personal life.

Producer Amy Pascal indicated that an official casting announcement could come by the end of the year, stating that the process is "really, really methodical" and that the new actor must be "something really different that is stirring, exciting and different."

Denis Villeneuve, slated to direct the film, has not commented on the casting, though he hinted at a forthcoming reveal at a recent LACMA event. Production is expected to begin in 2027, with a release targeted for 2028 at the earliest.