Pierce Brosnan may have hung up James Bond’s famous tuxedo years ago, but he is still closely following the search for the next 007. The former Bond star has offered a warm endorsement of Callum Turner, one of the actors reportedly in contention for the iconic role, while making it clear that he is looking forward to the official announcement like any other fan.
In a new interview with Vanity Fair, Brosnan spoke about the ongoing casting conversation and singled out Turner, whom he knows personally after working together on the 2017 film The Only Living Boy in New York. “Callum Turner is someone I’ve worked with, and he’s so strong,” Brosnan said, praising the actor alongside other performers reportedly being considered.
Brosnan Praises Turner’s Screen Presence
Brosnan, who played Bond in four films between GoldenEye (1995) and Die Another Day (2002), said he admires the actors whose names have surfaced in the casting conversation. He highlighted their screen presence, physicality and acting experience, qualities that have helped make the search for Daniel Craig’s successor such a closely watched story.
Turner’s name has been among those linked to the role, with reports also pointing to actors including Jack Lowden and Josh O’Connor. However, no official casting announcement has been made, and Brosnan’s comments should be viewed as personal praise rather than confirmation that Turner has secured the part.
Brosnan also offered a generous message to whoever ultimately becomes the next 007. “Whoever plays the role, I wish him the very best of life and strength and courage,” he said, adding that he eagerly awaits the news and celebration surrounding the next James Bond.
The Former 007 Is Excited for Denis Villeneuve’s Vision
Beyond the casting speculation, Brosnan is enthusiastic about the creative direction of the upcoming Bond film. Denis Villeneuve, known for Dune and Blade Runner 2049, is set to direct the next instalment, with Steven Knight writing the screenplay.
Brosnan expressed strong confidence in Villeneuve’s filmmaking style, describing his work as visionary and praising his approach to camera movement and storytelling. “I think we are going to be blown away,” the actor said, adding that he expects the film to be “truly magnificent.”
The new film is being developed under Amazon MGM Studios, which has taken creative control of the franchise. The project is currently planned for a theatrical release in 2028, although major details—including the identity of the next Bond—remain under wraps.
A New Era for the Bond Franchise
Brosnan’s comments carry particular weight because he helped define the character for a generation of viewers. His four-film run brought Bond into a new era after Timothy Dalton, before Daniel Craig introduced a more grounded interpretation of the spy.
Now, the franchise is preparing for another transition. Turner’s reported involvement has fuelled speculation, but the final decision remains with the filmmakers and studio. Brosnan’s endorsement adds momentum to the conversation without settling it.
For now, the former 007 is content to watch from the audience. Whether Turner or another contender takes the role, Brosnan appears confident that Villeneuve’s vision will give the next chapter a distinctive cinematic identity—and he is ready to see who will inherit one of film’s most enduring characters.
