Dame Judi Dench weighs in with surprising opinion on who should play the next James Bond

Dame Judi Dench has suggested that the next James Bond should be played by “a young actor we’ve not yet heard of”, rather than one of the established names linked to the role. Her view comes as a new film is being developed, with a release planned for 2028.

Several actors have reportedly screen-tested, including Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult, while Josh O’Connor, Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, Harry Styles and Theo James have also been mentioned. Denis Villeneuve is set to direct. Dench played M in eight Bond films over 20 years, one more than Roger Moore, and said she was not upset to leave the franchise.