Podcast Says Aaron Pierre Not in Bond Race
Hosts on The Big Picture podcast suggested the Lanterns actor is not among the four reported finalists for the James Bond role.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Action/Adventure
Podcast hosts suggested Aaron Pierre is not in the running to be the next James Bond. Four actors are understood to be in contention for the role, with final screen tests reportedly attended by Callum Turner, Josh O'Connor and Jack Lowden.
Why it matters
The discussion offers a rare public glimpse into the casting shortlist for a major franchise role that remains officially unannounced. Reports that filmmakers may favor a leaner Bond rather than a bruiser could shape how the character is cast and portrayed.
Three of the four reported contenders, Callum Turner, Josh O'Connor and Jack Lowden, are all 36 years old, while Aaron Pierre is 32. The fourth candidate's identity remains undisclosed, and no official casting announcement has been made.
The players
Aaron Pierre
London-born actor who plays John Stewart/Green Lantern in Lanterns and was discussed as a possible but unlikely Bond candidate.
Jack Lowden
Scottish actor best known for playing River Cartwright in Apple TV's Slow Horses, reportedly among the finalists for Bond.
The details
On The Big Picture podcast, hosts Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins, with guest Joanna Robinson, discussed the casting process. Robinson said she knew the identity of the unidentified auditionee, while the reported shortlist remains unconfirmed by the production.
Timeline
- November 3, 2026: Article published stating Aaron Pierre is ruled out as Bond.
Franchise Precedent
The reported search for a leaner Bond marks a potential departure from the brawnier, grittier template that Daniel Craig set with Casino Royale in 2006. Filmmakers appear to be weighing whether the franchise should pivot again after that era.
No release window, studio confirmation or ticketing information has been announced for the next Bond film. Viewers should expect the casting picture to remain unofficial until the production publicly names its lead.
The takeaway
Casting rumors often circulate well before any official announcement, so reported shortlists should be treated as unconfirmed until the studio speaks. The reported shift toward a leaner Bond would be a meaningful creative change for longtime fans of the franchise.
Further reading
For more on the franchise, see Action/Adventure coverage across film.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Sun.
