Scottish actor Jack Lowden has addressed persistent industry reports linking him to the iconic role of James Bond, describing the buzz as flattering while declining to add to the public speculation. Speaking to GQ, the Slow Horses star responded with measured levity to mounting chatter regarding his candidacy to succeed Daniel Craig as Agent 007 in Amazon MGM Studios’ franchise reboot. Lowden acknowledged that being mentioned for high-profile projects is an honor, though he downplayed the casting buzz as an inevitable rite of passage for British actors of his demographic. He observed,

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. 

Lowden also touched upon high-profile endorsement from his Slow Horses co-star Gary Oldman, who caused a media stir during a September television appearance by claiming producers had already finalized their choice and expressing hope that Lowden had landed the gig. Calling Oldman “a sweetheart,” Lowden noted that while the veteran actor’s public support was deeply appreciated, he does not let the outside commentary influence him. The remarks arrive amid reports that Lowden is one of four actors invited to participate in final screen tests for director Denis Villeneuve, who is attached to helm the 26th James Bond installment alongside producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman. Other reported contenders include Callum Turner and Josh O’Connor, alongside an undisclosed fourth candidate.

The casting process is being steered by casting director Nina Gold, who previously cast Lowden in his breakout turn as MI5 agent River Cartwright in Slow Horses.