Next James Bond: Oscar nods spark huge shake-up in race to replace Daniel Craig as new star becomes frontrunner

The speculation has gathered pace following Mr Elordi’s first Academy Award nomination for his performance as The Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Frankenstein, a career milestone that has significantly elevated his standing in Hollywood.

World Of Reel editor Jordan Ruimi has separately reported that an industry source places the Euphoria and Saltburn star firmly among the top contenders for 007, although no formal offer has yet been made.

Mr Elordi has not publicly commented on the growing rumours surrounding his potential casting.

The Oscar recognition has also had an immediate impact on betting markets, with bookmakers rapidly shortening his odds.

Paddy Power now lists Mr Elordi as second favourite at 7/2, behind Callum Turner, who remains the frontrunner at 5/6.

A spokesman for the bookmaker said: “Tall, handsome and mysterious. All things I’ve never been described as, but all things that fit the bill for a James Bond actor.

“Jacob Elordi ticks plenty of the boxes, hence why he’s our second favourite to get the job.”

Aaron Taylor-Johnson currently sits third in the betting at 4/1, followed by Theo James, Leo Suter and Anthony Boyle at 8/1, with James Nelson-Joyce rounding out the leading contenders at 10/1.

If cast, Mr Elordi would make Bond history on several fronts.

Standing at 6ft 5in, he would become the tallest actor ever to portray the British spy, surpassing Sean Connery’s 6ft 2in frame.

At just 28, he would also be the youngest Bond in the franchise’s history, aligning with reports that the studio is considering an origin-style reboot with a significantly younger lead.

Mr Elordi’s nationality would mark another notable milestone, making him only the second Australian to play Bond following George Lazenby’s sole appearance in 1969’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

Paddy Power joked: “After George Lazenby’s lone outing way back in 1969, it’s probably well overdue for another Australian to play Bond. If he gets the bod, hopefully he’ll last more than one movie, too.”

Deadline reporter Justin Kroll has suggested an official casting announcement could arrive around the middle of this year, with principal photography tentatively scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027.

The timeline would allow Mr Villeneuve to complete his current commitments, as the director is still focused on Dune: Part Three,, which is slated for release in December.

The extended casting process mirrors previous Bond transitions, with studios traditionally taking months, or even years, to lock in a lead actor for what often becomes a decade-long commitment.

Mr Craig was announced as Bond in October 2005, nearly a year before Casino Royale hit cinemas.

If the 26th Bond film does indeed target a 2028 release, as previously reported, the announcement of Mr Craig’s successor may still be several months away.

The franchise is entering a new era following Amazon MGM Studios’ acquisition of full creative control earlier this year, a shift that saw long-time custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson step away.

However, Mr Elordi’s path to the role may not be straightforward.

Deadline has previously reported Mr Villeneuve is seeking an actor who is male, British and relatively unknown, which could work against Mr Elordi, given his Australian background and rising global profile following his Oscar nomination.

That said, his acclaimed portrayal of an upper-class Felix Catton in Saltburn demonstrated his ability to convincingly adopt a British persona.

Both Amazon and Villeneuve have declined to comment on casting speculation, leaving fans to await an official decision on who will don the tuxedo next.

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