James Bond odds rocked as surprise new contender wows at Oscars | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV
A glamorous night celebrating Hollywood’s biggest stars has unexpectedly reignited one of Britain’s most enduring pop-culture debates — who will be the next James Bond? As cameras flashed and tuxedos dominated the red carpet, fans watching from around the world wasted no time turning the Academy Awards into an unofficial audition for 007. Social media quickly filled with speculation, with several unexpected names surging into the conversation after standout appearances and performances. Among those suddenly tipped for the iconic role was Leonardo DiCaprio, after one viewer shared a photo of the sharply dressed star alongside the caption: “Okkkk James Bond”.
Others turned their attention to newly crowned Best Actor winner Michael B. Jordan. One fan wrote: “Michael B Jordan – best actor winner.” They added: “They gave Michael now he can be the next James Bond.” However, it was rising British and European talent that dominated the betting markets in the immediate aftermath of the ceremony. Jacob Elordi — nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein — saw his name trend heavily online.
One admirer gushed: “Jacob may not have won an Oscar, but he has won the appreciation and support of audiences and peers… his future is bright! He will be back (many times). He might even be the next James Bond!!”
Meanwhile, fans also centred on actor Callum Turner, who attended Elton John’s star-studded Oscars afterparty with partner Dua Lipa. Commenting on a photo of the pair, one fan declared: “The next James Bond and the next Oscar-winning songwriter.”
The speculation mirrors movement in the bookmakers’ odds, which have shifted dramatically in recent weeks.
According to bookmaker Coral, as of mid-March 2026, Turner has consolidated his position as the frontrunner, typically at 4/7 and 4/5, which signals strong confidence that he could inherit the role from Daniel Craig. Industry insiders note that his classic leading-man look and British credentials fit the traditional Bond mould.
Elordi has emerged as the most serious challenger, with his odds shortening sharply following awards-season buzz.
In some markets, he has been priced as short as 5/4 or 7/2, placing him firmly in contention despite being younger and less traditionally associated with the franchise.
Former favourite Aaron Taylor-Johnson has slipped behind the pair, now trading around 3/1 or 11/2 after previously dominating the race.
Tom Hiddleston has also staged a late surge, fuelled by renewed attention on The Night Manager. His odds have been slashed from 33/1 to around 12/1, prompting speculation that producers could favour an established star with proven spy credentials.
Other names consistently circulating include Theo James and Henry Cavill, both long-time fan favourites who remain firmly in the mix.
Despite the feverish guessing game, the role has not yet been officially cast. The next instalment in the Bond franchise is expected to be directed by Denis Villeneuve, who will reportedly turn his full attention to the project once work on Dune: Part III concludes.
