James Bond writer ‘can’t talk’ about casting after Gary Oldman’s announcement

James Bond writer Steven Knight has fueled speculation that the next 007 has already been cast.

Actor Gary Oldman made headlines around the world earlier this week when he announced that the cast had already been cast for Daniel Craig’s sequel.

Asked if he would back his Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden for the role, Gary said during an interview with Canada’s Global: “There were rumors that he was on the shortlist. We’re going to find out pretty soon, aren’t we? Because they cast him.

“They’ve made their choice but haven’t announced it yet. So I’m crossing my fingers for Jack.”

When Stephen appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Today program on Tuesday (09/08/26), questions inevitably turned to the identity of the new Bond.

However, he said: “I cannot talk about this topic. No matter how much I would like to.”

Presenter Anna Foster then said that “you probably know who it is when you write it”, asking Stephen if it “matters”.

He responded, “Life gets a little easier if you know who the person is, but you also have to write the character, not the actor.”

The presenter refused to give up as she said, “So they told you at the beginning before you started writing, or are they telling you in the middle?

Stephen could be heard laughing and he said to Anna: “I refer you to my previous answer.”

He added: “The thing about Bond is that it has its own universe and its own franchise. So there are certain rules.

“I mean, obviously you’d have to move it, but I like where it’s at. I like that it’s British. I like that it’s not DC or Marvel… So I feel responsible for the writing.”

Over the summer, it was reported that auditions were being held to replace 007, with other names on the list including Jack Barton, best known for his role in the Netflix series Heartstopper.

Six actors are reportedly shortlisted for the role, with the other four being Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal and Harris Dickinson.