Hollywood heartthrob Timothée Chalamet is at the center of swirling rumors regarding the future of the James Bond franchise.
Reports suggest that Dune director Denis Villeneuve is being considered to helm the next installment in the iconic spy series—and Chalamet’s name has surfaced in connection with the project.
With two Academy Award nominations under his belt and global acclaim from major blockbusters like Dune, Chalamet appears to be a tempting choice for the next chapter of the 007 saga. Speculation intensified as reports emerged that Villeneuve, who directed Chalamet in Dune, is being eyed as a frontrunner to direct the next Bond film.
This potential shift comes amid major changes in the Bond universe. Following Amazon’s $8.5 billion acquisition of MGM, longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have stepped back, with Amazon MGM Studios reportedly gaining creative control. However, a February statement confirmed that Broccoli and Wilson will remain co-owners of the franchise.
Despite the buzz, insiders have clarified that Chalamet will not be taking up the role of James Bond himself. Speaking to DailyMail.com, a source said, “Timothée Chalamet could be a part of a future Bond film, but in no way, shape or form will he be James Bond.”
They added firmly, “An American actor will not play Bond. It is not going to happen, so that leaves Timothée out of the running for the lead.”
The Bond franchise has always favored British actors for the titular role, with past stars including Sean Connery, Daniel Craig, and Roger Moore. Since 2021’s No Time to Die, the franchise has remained in limbo, with fans eagerly awaiting news about its future direction.
While Chalamet may not don the tuxedo as 007, his potential involvement in the next Bond film under Villeneuve’s direction would still mark a major addition to the franchise and spark excitement for what lies ahead.