A new name has shot up the bookmakers’ prognostications of who could be the next James Bond, as final screen tests for the role begin this weekend.
Richard Madden has emerged as a late contender for the coveted 007 mantle, after his odds were slashed in the final stages.
The Scottish actor, 40, made his name with roles including Robb Stark in Game of Thrones and as the titular minder on The Bodyguard, starring alongside Keeley Hawes.
Madden has now joined the likes of Callum Turner and Jack O’Connell in the Bond rumour mill, with whichever actor is finally chosen no doubt set to fulfil a lifelong dream of playing the international spy.
According to William Hill, Madden’s odds have dropped from an unlikely 40/1 to 14/1, with bookie spokesperson Lee Phelps describing it as a ‘huge move’ in their Bond betting.
He added to the Daily Mail: ‘Jack Lowden remains the man to beat at 4/6, having shortened from 4/5, with Callum Turner his nearest challenger at 3/1.
‘Madden’s move adds another interesting name to the mix, but Lowden continues to lead the way as speculation over who will become the next 007 continues.’
It comes as The Hollywood Reporter claimed that a select group of actors will get their final chance to prove themselves at a screen test this weekend.
Several sources told the publication that those taking part will include Turner and Lowden, with the final auditions reportedly happening at Bray Studios in Berkshire.
The Daily Mail reports that Turner has already had the call to get on his tux and head to the audition.
‘Daniel Craig’s replacement has been years in the making, and Callum was called today to have his chance to impress the bosses,’ a source told the paper.
‘The next three days are going to be very interesting indeed.’
The screen tests are said to be ‘comprehensive’ and will involve three components: stunts, camera presence and dialogue.
Amazon previously said in a statement: ‘The search for the next James Bond is underway. While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right.’
Peaky Blinders scribe Steven Knight is only on board to write the next Bond film, which he is writing the script for as the search for the lead continues.
Speaking about the experience on Radio 4 last month, he said: ‘It does make life a little bit easier if you know who that person is, but also you have to write the character, not the actor.
‘The thing with Bond is that it’s its own universe and own franchise so there are certain rules; obviously you have to move it along but I love where it sits.
‘I love that it’s British and it’s not DC or Marvel. The only thing I can say is I feel like I’m doing my duty for King and country. It’s like something if you’re a British writer, you have to do.’