GARY Oldman has fuelled fresh speculation that Amazon has selected his Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden for the role of the next James Bond.
The Oscar-winning actor was asked about Lowden’s chances of becoming the next 007 during an interview with Canada’s The Morning Show.
“It’s been rumoured that [Lowden] is on the shortlist,” Oldman said.
“We’re going to find out pretty soon, aren’t we? Because they have picked him. They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack.”
The comments prompted questions over whether Oldman has knowledge of the closely guarded casting process, or whether he was referring to reports suggesting a decision has been made.
However, Oldman did not say that Lowden had been selected.
Support for Lowden also came from fellow Slow Horses actor James Callis, who plays Claude Whelan in the Apple TV+ drama.
Posting a picture of Lowden on Instagram, Callis wrote: “He doesn't need my blessing – but he's got it in spades. (Saved my life! – in the park.)”
He added: “My word is my bond.”
Amazon MGM has yet to officially announce who will take over the role following Daniel Craig’s departure after 2021’s No Time to Die.
Craig’s final appearance as Bond brought his 15-year run as the character to an end, triggering years of speculation over the next actor to play the iconic part.
Lowden has emerged as one of several actors linked with the part as producers prepare a new era for the long-running spy franchise. Callum Turner, Jack O’Connell and Jacob Elordi are also among the names reported to be in contention.
Lowden, 36, is best known for roles in Dunkirk, Mary Queen of Scots and Apple TV+ series Slow Horses. He has been outspoken in his support for Scottish independence and previously shared photographs from The National’s 2019 Yes rally in Glasgow’s George Square.
The actor is married to Irish actor Saoirse Ronan. The pair met while filming Mary Queen of Scots, in which Ronan played the title role and Lowden appeared as her on-screen husband, Lord Darnley.
