Former Bond girl Alison Papworth says the next James Bond should be another “gorgeous man” as Amazon’s 007 casting decision nears.
Former Bond girl Alison Papworth has shared her hopes for the next James Bond, saying she believes the iconic 007 role should remain with a man as anticipation builds over the franchise’s next casting decision.
Papworth, who appeared in the James Bond films For Your Eyes Only and Octopussy alongside Roger Moore, told Fox News Digital that she hopes the next actor stays faithful to the character established in Ian Fleming’s books.
Alison Papworth wants a male James Bond
Papworth said she understands why fans are eagerly waiting for news about the next 007, but believes the character should continue to be portrayed by a man.
“I know they’re about to announce the next Bond, aren’t they?” Papworth told Fox News Digital.
“If they’re true to the books, I hope it’s a man,” she said, adding that she thought a female version of Bond would be “a totally different thing.”
Papworth ultimately summed up her preference by saying she hopes the next 007 will be “another man, another gorgeous man.”
Her comments arrive as speculation surrounding the next James Bond actor reaches another stage, with several high-profile names reportedly being considered for the coveted role.
Jack Lowden emerges as a Bond contender
Interest in the casting process intensified after acclaimed actor Gary Oldman suggested that his Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden could be in the running.
Oldman initially indicated that he had heard Lowden had been selected, but later clarified that he did not actually know who had secured the role.
According to Fox News, Oldman said there were six people on the shortlist and that he had only heard a rumor that the next Bond had been chosen. He added that he was hoping Lowden would get the part.
Lowden, known for his work in Slow Horses, has consequently become one of the actors attracting attention as fans await an official announcement.
Amazon takes control of the James Bond franchise
The next Bond movie marks a significant new chapter for the long-running franchise.
Amazon MGM Studios gained creative control of James Bond in 2025 after forming a joint venture with longtime producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
The studio announced in May that the search for the next 007 had begun.
Director Denis Villeneuve is attached to helm the upcoming Bond film, while Steven Knight is writing the screenplay.
Daniel Craig last portrayed James Bond in No Time to Die, which was released in 2021 and marked his final appearance as the legendary British spy.
Who could become the next James Bond?
Several actors have been linked to the role as speculation continues.
Among the names reportedly considered are Paul Mescal, Jacob Elordi and Jack O’Connell, although no official casting announcement has been made.
The next actor will inherit one of cinema’s most recognizable roles after Craig’s 15-year run as 007.
With Amazon now overseeing the franchise and Villeneuve preparing to direct, the decision is expected to have a major impact on the future direction of the Bond series.
For Papworth, however, one thing is clear: she wants the next James Bond to remain a man and continue the tradition of the “gorgeous” male 007.
Also read: Kristin Cavallari Stuns in Daring Denim Look
