James Bond Hopefuls Evoke Skyfall Magic in London Photocall
In a striking homage to cinematic history, James Bond contenders Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Theo James recreated Daniel Craig's iconic pose overlooking the London skyline during a photocall for their new film Fuze on Friday. The actors exuded sophistication against a backdrop reminiscent of the 2012 blockbuster Skyfall, blending classic spy allure with modern star power.
Stylish Contenders and Current Odds
Taylor-Johnson, aged 35 and currently holding odds of 11/2 to become the next 007, cut a suave figure in a brown suede jacket layered over an open-collared shirt and smart trousers. His co-star Theo James, 41, with odds of 15/2, matched the elegance in a lighter suede ensemble paired with a beige sweater, baggy trousers, and shades. They were joined by their stunning co-star Gugu Mbatha-Raw and director David Mackenzie, all appearing in high spirits as they posed together against the iconic London sights.
The current bookmakers' favourites for the coveted role remain Jacob Elordi at 5/4 and Callum Turner at 6/4, with other notable contenders including Henry Cavill at 16/1. This speculation has intensified following Amazon's acquisition of creative control over the franchise earlier this year.
Amazon's Billion-Dollar Bond Takeover
After acquiring MGM in 2022, Amazon secured distribution rights to the 007 franchise, but it wasn't until March 2025 that they struck a deal with Barbara and Michael Broccoli for full creative control. While financial terms were undisclosed, rumours suggest the agreement exceeded $1 billion. Barbara and Michael, who have overseen the franchise since 1995 when their father Albert R. Broccoli ceded control of Eon Productions, are now collaborating with Amazon on the future of Bond.
Industry insiders note that Barbara Broccoli previously favoured Taylor-Johnson for the role, but Amazon executives, including producers David Heyman and Amy Pascal, are likely to assert their own vision for the next 007. The acquisition has sparked fears among purists that Amazon might introduce endless spin-offs, similar to the Star Wars model, potentially altering the franchise's core identity.
New Filming Locations and Creative Directions
With a filming ban imposed in central London, Amazon is reportedly considering alternative locations for the much-anticipated new Bond film, expected for release in late 2026 or 2027. Liverpool has emerged as a frontrunner, according to sources cited by The Sun, due to its versatility in doubling as international cities in films like The Batman and Captain America.
An insider revealed, 'This will no doubt irk Bond purists who already fear Amazon taking over the 007 franchise may lead to them making big changes. But Liverpool is a well-known alternative to London for film-makers.' The source clarified that while the story might not be set in Liverpool, eagle-eyed viewers will likely spot the city centre in background shots.
Amazon is fast-tracking the new movie after the costly deal, with plans to avoid multiverse plots, explanations of Bond's survival, or attempts to revert to a 1960s vintage setting. Instead, the focus is on revitalising the franchise with fresh locations and creative input, building on Bond's legacy of video game adaptations since the 1980s, which ranged from shooting games to text adventures.
As speculation grows over who will don the tuxedo next, Taylor-Johnson and James continue to be touted as favourites among industry figures, their recent photocall serving as a tantalising preview of what might come under Amazon's stewardship of the world's most famous spy.
