A quiet contender enters the 007 race

Little-known actor Scott Rose-Marsh linked to screen test for James Bond role

The next James Bond remains uncast, but speculation around who will inherit the iconic 007 mantle has intensified after reports that a relatively unknown British actor, Scott Rose-Marsh, has undergone a screen test for the role.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, 37-year-old Scott was recently invited to audition for the next iteration of James Bond, reading scenes from the 1995 film 'GoldenEye'. The session reportedly took place in late May, with suggestions that he may also have performed material from an early version of Steven Knight's script for the upcoming Bond film.

Rose-Marsh, a graduate of London's BRIT School, was allegedly given one clear instruction before cameras rolled: not to imitate any previous portrayal of the legendary spy. The actor's credits include independent feature 'Krays: Code Of Silence' (2021) and television appearances in 'Chloe' and 'The Outlaws'.

The reports stand in contrast to earlier industry chatter suggesting that Amazon, which acquired creative control of the franchise in a reported $1 billion deal earlier this year, was leaning towards casting a younger actor in his twenties.

That alone has fuelled uncertainty over the direction of the next Bond era, which is being steered by director Denis Villeneuve and writer Steven Knight, known for 'Dune' and 'Peaky Blinders' respectively. If confirmed, Scot would represent one of the most unexpected casting choices in the franchise's history.

Bond has never been portrayed by a red-haired actor, and the selection of a relatively low-profile name would mark a notable departure from recent high-profile casting speculation, which has included figures such as Aaron Taylor-Johnson.

The process, however, remains at an early stage, with no official announcements made by the studio. Industry insiders suggest multiple actors are still under consideration as the search for a new 007 continues behind closed doors.

Meanwhile, actor Brian Cox has added to the conversation, suggesting that Cillian Murphy could be a compelling choice. Speaking to Radio Times, he described the Irish star as "very real" and "interesting", noting his grounded screen presence.

For now, the identity of the next Bond remains one of cinema's most closely guarded secrets, with rumours only adding to the anticipation surrounding the franchise's next chapter.