Danny Boyle urges casting of Jack O’Connell as the next James Bond

During a panel at the Zurich Film Festival, filmmaker Danny Boyle advocated for Jack O’Connell to take over the James Bond mantle, suggesting he fits the role perfectly. Boyle, who had been slated to direct the 2021 Bond entry No Time to Die before departing due to disagreements with producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, reflected on the missed opportunity, noting the story he developed with writer John Hodge could have been strong.

He also lauded Denis Villeneuve, the director attached to the forthcoming Bond film, as capable of delivering a successful continuation of the franchise. Boyle’s endorsement joins a list of actors, including Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson and Paul Mescal, who have been rumored for the part. Meanwhile, actor Taron Egerton has ruled himself out, calling the role “messy” and saying younger talent would be a better fit.