The 7 Actors Who Played James Bond, Ranked By Era (Plus The Shocking Frontrunner For 007's 2025 Return)

The iconic role of James Bond, 007, has been a cinematic cornerstone for over six decades, personified by a select group of actors who have each brought a distinct flavor to Ian Fleming’s legendary spy. As of today, December 10, 2025, the world is in a state of feverish anticipation following the emotional conclusion of Daniel Craig’s tenure in *No Time to Die* (2021), leaving the coveted role vacant for the first time in 15 years.

The search for the seventh official James Bond is now the most talked-about casting decision in Hollywood, with producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson of Eon Productions reportedly narrowing down a shortlist. This comprehensive guide details the six official actors, their legacies, and provides the absolute freshest, most current update on the next actor set to inherit the Walther PPK and the Aston Martin.

The Six Official James Bond Actors: A Complete Biography and Filmography

The role of James Bond is defined by the six actors cast by Eon Productions. While other actors, such as Barry Nelson (a 1954 television adaptation of *Casino Royale*) and David Niven (the unofficial 1967 spoof *Casino Royale*), have also played the character, the official cinematic lineage runs through these six men.

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• Sean Connery (1962–1967, 1971, 1983)
  • Official Eon Films: 6 (*Dr. No* to *Diamonds Are Forever*).
  • Unofficial Film: 1 (*Never Say Never Again*, 1983).
  • Legacy: The original, setting the standard for the suave, dangerous, and witty spy.
  • Post-Bond Career Highlights: Connery achieved even greater critical success, winning an Oscar for *The Untouchables* (1987) and starring in major hits like *Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade* (1989) and *The Rock*.
• George Lazenby (1969)
  • Official Eon Films: 1 (*On Her Majesty's Secret Service*).
  • Legacy: The shortest-serving Bond, but his single film is now widely considered one of the best and most emotionally resonant in the series, featuring Bond's only marriage.
  • Current Update (2025): The Australian actor and former model recently announced his retirement from public life and acting, marking a quiet end to his long career.
• Roger Moore (1973–1985)
  • Official Eon Films: 7 (*Live and Let Die* to *A View to a Kill*).
  • Legacy: The longest-serving Bond by film count, known for his lighthearted, humorous, and eyebrow-raising take on the character, steering the franchise towards a more comedic and fantastical tone.
  • Post-Bond Career Highlights: Moore became a prominent international goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, a role he considered his most important. He continued acting on screen until his final appearance in a pilot for a new *Saint* series in 2017.
• Timothy Dalton (1987–1989)
  • Official Eon Films: 2 (*The Living Daylights* and *Licence to Kill*).
  • Legacy: The "serious" Bond, bringing a darker, more grounded, and ruthless edge closer to Ian Fleming’s original literary character, paving the way for Daniel Craig's era.
  • Recent Filmography: Dalton has enjoyed a successful television career, notably appearing in the DC Universe series *Doom Patrol* and having a celebrated role in the Netflix hit *The Crown*.
• Pierce Brosnan (1995–2002)
  • Official Eon Films: 4 (*GoldenEye* to *Die Another Day*).
  • Legacy: Successfully modernized Bond for the post-Cold War era, blending the classic Connery swagger with a contemporary action sensibility.
  • Current Filmography (2025): Brosnan remains highly active, starring in recent films like the action-comedy *Fast Charlie* (2023) and the World War II drama *The Last Rifleman* (2024). His upcoming projects include *Four Letters of Love* (expected 2025).
• Daniel Craig (2006–2021)
  • Official Eon Films: 5 (*Casino Royale* to *No Time to Die*).
  • Legacy: The longest-serving Bond by time (15 years), his era rebooted the character with a gritty, emotionally complex, and physically demanding portrayal, culminating in a definitive, narrative-driven conclusion.
  • Post-Bond Career Highlights: Craig has transitioned to a new iconic role as the Southern detective Benoit Blanc in the *Knives Out* mystery film series. He is currently "working harder" than ever and is set to return for *Knives Out 3*.

The Strict Criteria for the Next 007: What Eon Productions is Looking For

The transition from Daniel Craig has been a meticulous process for Eon Productions, led by producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. The delay is deliberate, as the producers have confirmed they are seeking a long-term commitment and a specific type of actor to relaunch the franchise for a new generation. This is not just a casting decision; it is a decade-long franchise commitment.

The key criteria for the next James Bond are surprisingly strict and have been repeatedly emphasized:

• Gender: The producers have confirmed the character must remain male.
• Age: The preferred actor must be in his 30s. This is to ensure he can realistically portray the character for the required 10–15 year run, allowing the producers to explore the spy's evolution from his early career.
• Commitment: The chosen actor must be willing to commit to the role for at least a decade, which means many established stars are ruled out due to scheduling conflicts or reluctance to be tied down to a single franchise.
• Nationality: While not a hard rule, the preference remains for a British or Commonwealth actor, maintaining the character's heritage.

The new film, tentatively known as *Bond 26*, is expected to begin production after the official announcement, which is rumored to be scheduled for some time in 2025.

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The Shocking Frontrunners: Current Odds and Latest Rumors for Bond 7

The speculation machine has been running hot since *No Time to Die*, with dozens of names—from Tom Hardy and Idris Elba to Henry Cavill—being frequently mentioned. However, the current, fresh information from early 2025 points to a younger, less established group of British actors who fit the "in his 30s" requirement.

The betting odds and industry rumors have seen massive shifts, with a new favorite emerging almost monthly. As of the latest reports, the top contenders are:

Aaron Taylor-Johnson

The *Kick-Ass* and *Kraven the Hunter* star, who is in his early 30s, remains a persistent favorite. Rumors intensified in March 2024 with reports that he had been formally offered the role, though no official announcement from Eon Productions has ever materialized. The actor has given curt, non-committal responses to questions about the role, which has only fueled the speculation that he is the chosen one.

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Callum Turner

Known for his roles in *Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald* and *Masters of the Air*, Turner has seen his odds dramatically improve in recent weeks. He fits the age profile perfectly and has a strong, diverse acting background, making him a major contender in the current betting market.

Anthony Boyle

In a surprising twist, Anthony Boyle, known for *Masters of the Air* and *The Plot Against America*, has recently become one of the top favorites in the betting odds. His sudden rise indicates strong industry buzz or insider activity, making him a new, dark horse candidate to watch closely in 2025.

Josh O'Connor

The Emmy-winning star of *The Crown* was heavily tipped by some Hollywood insiders. However, O'Connor himself has recently clarified that the initial buzz surrounding his name originated from a joke he made, stating he has not heard anything directly from Eon Productions. Despite this, his name continues to circulate due to his talent and perfect fit for the age criteria.

The ultimate choice for the next James Bond will define the franchise's direction for the next decade. Whether it is a familiar face like Aaron Taylor-Johnson or a newer star like Anthony Boyle, the actor will be tasked with reinventing a character that has been a cultural icon since Sean Connery first uttered "Bond, James Bond" in 1962. The world awaits the 2025 announcement with bated breath.