Jack Lowden has said he is “flattered” by the speculation he could be the next James Bond.
The Scottish actor, 36, is believed to be in the running for the role alongside Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor.
The actor chosen will replace Daniel Craig, who took over the role of Bond with Casino Royale in 2006 and bowed out after his fifth film, No Time to Die, in 2021.
Speaking to GQ Hype, Lowden responded to the rumours, but did not confirm or deny whether he was part of the auditioning process.
“On this… it’s all very flattering. It’s nice to be mentioned – for any role – and I’m just not really going to add to the noise,” he said.
Last month, his Slow Horses co-star Gary Oldman claimed the new Bond had been chosen, adding that he had his “fingers crossed” for Lowden.
Speaking to Canada’s Global, Oldman said: “It’s been rumoured that he’s on the shortlist. We’re going to find out pretty soon, aren’t we? Because they have picked him.
“They have made their choice, but they have not announced it yet. So my fingers are crossed for Jack.”
Jack Lowden did not confirm or deny whether he was part of the auditioning process
When asked by GQ Hype about Oldman’s comments, Lowden said: “It’s very nice, and Gary’s a sweetheart – it’s particularly lovely, coming from someone like him. But I don’t really listen to it.”
He added: “As a young male actor, generally, the minute you’re not playing a zany artist type, the minute you’re in a suit, people fling it at you.”
During an appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival, Oldman clarified his remarks and said he had only heard a rumour that producers had selected an actor from a shortlist, not that Lowden had been cast.
“So, I do not know [who has gotten the part], but I’m hoping it’s Jack,” he said.
Lowden is best known for his roles in films including Dunkirk and Mary Queen of Scots, as well as TV roles in Slow Horses and War & Peace.
The actor has also been awarded two BAFTAs and a Laurence Olivier Award as well as nominations for two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award.
He is next starring alongside Emma Corrin in Dolly Alderton’s adaptation of Pride and Prejudice.
The next Bond film is in development after it was announced last year that Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight would write the script.
Source: Press Association