The search for the next James Bond is reportedly entering a crucial stage, and Elden Ring fans may recognize one of the actors being considered for the iconic 007 role. Jack Barton, who voiced Messmer the Impaler in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, has reportedly emerged as a surprise contender for Bond 26.
According to Page Six Hollywood, Barton is among a group of actors expected to screen-test for the role in early September. The reported shortlist also includes Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal, Callum Turner, Jack Lowden and Harris Dickinson, with Barton described as a particularly unexpected frontrunner.
Jack Barton Could Be Bond 26’s Surprise Choice
Barton is better known for live-action roles in Heartstopper, SAS: Rogue Heroes and Poor Things, but his role as Messmer marked an important video-game credit. His performance as the fiery demigod in Shadow of the Erdtree is confirmed in the game’s English voice cast.
The Bond casting process remains unconfirmed, however. Amazon MGM Studios has explicitly said it will not comment on specific details while casting is underway.
What is confirmed is that Denis Villeneuve is directing Bond 26, while Steven Knight is writing the screenplay. Amy Pascal and David Heyman are producing, with the movie becoming the first James Bond film developed under Amazon MGM Studios’ new creative control of the franchise.
There is currently no release date for Bond 26, and Amazon MGM has yet to announce who will succeed Daniel Craig as 007.
| Release Date | February 25, 2022 |
|---|---|
| Platforms | PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S +2 more |
| Developer | FromSoftware |
| Director | Hidetaka Miyazaki |
| Writer / Narrative | George R. R. Martin |
