What after ‘No Time To Die’? Fans of the 007 franchise have been asking this question for years now. A lot of rumours have been surfacing, related to the upcoming installation of the franchise- Bond 26. While none of these are confirmed yet, a roundup of the top 11 could be of interest to many. So here you go…
Table of Contents
1. Steve McQueen Might Direct Bond 26
Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen has been rumoured as a potential director, with The Sun quoting an insider who believes McQueen’s distinct vision could bring a fresh perspective to Bond. McQueen’s team, however, has given a “no comment” response, leaving fans intrigued but uncertain.
2. Edward Berger Rumor (Debunked)
German director Edward Berger, known for All Quiet on the Western Front, was once rumoured to be on Eon’s radar, but he dismissed the claim, calling it “an absolute rumour.”
3. Qatar as a New Bond Location
Rumors suggest Bond 26 could be partially filmed in Doha, Qatar. The franchise has never shot in the Gulf region, and with Bond producer Barbara Broccoli’s connections in the Middle East, this would be an exciting shift.
4. Aaron Taylor-Johnson Reportedly Offered Bond Role
The Sun reported in March that Aaron Taylor-Johnson is the frontrunner for Bond, with a formal offer made. However, production delays from industry strikes have slowed progress. The list of potential 007 successor candidates was longer.
5. Paul Mescal and an Older 007
A unique twist from The Sun hinted that Bond 26 could feature two 007 agents—a younger, possibly played by Normal People star Paul Mescal, and an older agent. This approach would be an unusual expansion for the Bond universe, echoing ideas from past scripts that explored Bond’s mentorship by a veteran agent.
6. Christopher Nolan’s Period Bond
Christopher Nolan was rumoured to be interested in directing two Bond films with a retro spin, staying true to Ian Fleming’s original novels. However, Nolan has publicly denied any involvement, dismissing the rumours as “nonsense.”
7. Denis Villeneuve as a Strong Contender
Denis Villeneuve, director of Dune and Blade Runner 2049, has openly expressed interest in Bond, calling it a “dream project.” He may now be in talks, though nothing is official yet.
8. Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Return as Writer
Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who contributed to No Time to Die, might return as a writer for Bond 26. While her directorial involvement was debunked, her storytelling style could add fresh energy to the script.
9. Daisy May Cooper Not the Next M
The Sun once claimed British comedian Daisy May Cooper was cast as M. However, Cooper later dismissed the report, saying, “The only M I’ll ever be is Mental.”
10. Bond 26 May Not Shoot at Pinewood
Pinewood Studios, home to Bond, has a packed schedule with Disney’s productions, leading to concerns that Bond 26 might need to find a new filming location. However, Eon is optimistic about negotiating studio space at Pinewood.
11. Jacob Elordi in the Running for Bond
Australian actor Jacob Elordi (Euphoria, The Kissing Booth) has fans buzzing as a potential young Bond. Although still early, his rumoured interest aligns with Eon’s apparent desire for a younger Bond.
While none of these rumors have been confirmed, the Bond franchise’s intrigue endures, with fans eagerly awaiting official news on Bond 26’s cast, director, and plot.
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