Why the star of Slow Horses is on the fast track to becoming the next 007

Jack Lowden is rapidly ascending as one of the most promising candidates to take on the legendary role of James Bond, following Daniel Craig’s departure from the franchise. The Scottish actor, currently celebrated for his portrayal of River Cartwright in Apple TV+’s espionage drama Slow Horses, has captured considerable attention from industry insiders and streaming executives alike.

Slow Horses, now entering its sixth season on Apple TV+, features Lowden as a flawed MI5 agent relegated to a department dealing with intelligence misfits. Despite the character’s underdog status, Lowden’s nuanced performance has earned critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including Golden Globe, Emmy, and BAFTA nods. His work alongside veteran actor Gary Oldman in the series has further cemented his reputation within the spy genre.

Beyond television, Lowden boasts a diverse filmography with notable roles in Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk and the historical drama Mary Queen of Scots, where he met his wife, Saoirse Ronan. The couple, now married and residing between Scotland, London, and Ireland, maintain a low-profile lifestyle away from the typical Hollywood spotlight.

The transition from Slow Horses to James Bond is complicated by the competing interests of major streaming platforms. Amazon, which acquired the rights to the Bond franchise last year in a substantial multi-billion-dollar deal, is reportedly eager to cast Lowden as the next 007. However, Apple TV+, home to Slow Horses, also values the actor highly, setting the stage for a high-stakes negotiation over his future.

Industry sources reveal that Lowden is among a shortlist of four leading contenders for the Bond role. While the full list remains confidential, names such as Jacob Elordi, Callum Turner, Paul Mescal, and Jack O’Connell have surfaced alongside Lowden in speculation. The competition underscores the significance of the role and the challenges in balancing franchise commitments across different platforms.

Director Saul Metzstein, who oversaw key seasons of Slow Horses, has publicly praised Lowden’s suitability for Bond, highlighting his wit and evolving craft. This endorsement aligns with the broader perception that Lowden’s blend of charm and depth positions him as a natural successor to the role, particularly in reclaiming the Scottish heritage introduced by Sir Sean Connery, the original Bond.

Lowden’s journey to this point reflects a steady rise through theatre and screen. His early acting experiences include prominent stage work, such as the lead in the National Theatre of Scotland’s acclaimed Black Watch, and training at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Transitioning from theatre to film and television, he has built a solid foundation marked by critically recognized performances.

Despite the swirling rumors regarding his Bond future, Lowden remains discreet about the possibility. Nonetheless, his growing prominence and the strategic interests of streaming giants suggest that his casting could signal a new era for the franchise, blending established talent with fresh creative direction.

As the James Bond franchise prepares for its next chapter, Jack Lowden’s rising star embodies the evolving landscape of British spy narratives, bridging traditional cinematic prestige and contemporary streaming powerhouses. His potential appointment as 007 would not only continue the character’s legacy but also highlight the increasing influence of streaming services in shaping global entertainment.

The final decision on the new Bond remains pending, with industry observers closely monitoring negotiations and casting developments. Meanwhile, Lowden’s career trajectory exemplifies the dynamic interplay between television success and blockbuster stardom in the modern entertainment era.