The man with the golden wife: Callum Turner's sights are set on being the next Bond. KATIE HIND reveals why it's Dua Lipa's powerful position in pop music that might just swing it

With Amazon fully in control of the James Bond franchise for the first time, the search for Daniel Craig’s successor has gained unprecedented commercial significance. Among the frontrunners is British actor Callum Turner, whose prospects are notably enhanced by his marriage to global pop sensation Dua Lipa.

Turner, 36, recently held his wedding at the historic Villa Valguarnera near Palermo, an event marked by luxury and style that caught the attention of industry insiders, including executives at Amazon. The actor, known for his role in the 2018 film Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, has been among the first to audition in the final round for the iconic role, which is set to begin filming next spring.

Amazon’s acquisition of MGM Studios in 2021 for $8.4 billion brought full artistic control of the Bond franchise, creating enormous pressure to select a Bond who can drive not only box office success but also lucrative brand partnerships and franchise expansion across various platforms. This shift has made the commercial influence of potential Bonds a key factor in casting decisions.

Dua Lipa, 31, a Grammy-winning British-Albanian artist, is recognized not only for her musical achievements but also for her extensive endorsements with luxury brands such as Chanel, Versace, YSL Beauty, Bulgari, Nespresso, and Puma. Her global reach and appeal are seen as a valuable asset that could amplify the Bond franchise’s cultural and commercial impact.

Callum Turner himself has aligned with premium brands, recently becoming the global ambassador for Johnnie Walker Blue Label and featuring in campaigns for Burberry, Montblanc, and Louis Vuitton. This combination of Turner’s acting credentials and Lipa’s commercial clout presents a compelling package for Amazon, which aims to maximize the franchise’s visibility and revenue streams.

Turner faces strong competition, notably from Jack Lowden and Josh O’Connor, both 36. Lowden, known for his role in the series Slow Horses, is reportedly highly favored within Amazon and brings his own high-profile connections, including his wife, actress Saoirse Ronan. O’Connor, acclaimed for his performances in The Crown and Challengers, offers significant acting prowess but lacks the extensive commercial endorsements that Lipa brings.

A fourth contender remains unnamed but is widely speculated to be Australian actor Jacob Elordi, who, despite agent denials, continues to be in the running. Elordi’s profile includes high-profile relationships and a growing acting career, which could provide additional appeal.

The significance of Lipa’s involvement extends beyond publicity. Bond films have a rich tradition of memorable title tracks performed by British artists—Adele and Sam Smith among them. Having Lipa contribute musically could offer Amazon further promotional leverage and brand synergy.

Casting director Nina Gold, renowned for her work on major productions such as Game of Thrones and The Crown, is expected to finalize the casting decision by the end of the year. This marks a departure from the Broccoli family’s longstanding oversight of Bond, signaling a new era in how the character is shaped and marketed.

Since speculation about the new Bond began years ago, numerous actors have been linked to the role, including Richard Madden, Idris Elba, Henry Cavill, and Paul Mescal, among others. However, Amazon’s current focus blends traditional acting considerations with the commercial and multimedia potential that candidates and their partners bring.

While no official announcement has been made, sources close to the production suggest that Turner’s combination of talent and Lipa’s influential presence positions him as a particularly attractive choice. In this evolving landscape, the next Bond is not just a cinematic icon but also a pivotal figure in a complex entertainment and marketing ecosystem.

Details regarding the final decision remain limited, but the upcoming months are expected to bring clarity to who will inherit one of cinema’s most enduring roles and how their personal and professional affiliations might shape the future of the franchise.