‘Heartstopper’ Actor Jack Barton Rumored to be Next James Bond – Fans React

The casting process for the next James Bond actor is heating up, with a new name entering the mix as screen tests begin.

According to Page Six, British actor Jack Barton, who played Kit Connor’s on-screen brother David Nelson in Netflix’s Heartstopper, is the new frontrunner for the job. The outlet reports that Barton impressed filmmaker Denis Villeneuve and casting director Nina Gold.

Barton, who also starred in Steven Knight‘s historical drama SAS: Rogue Heroes, is one of six actors said to be doing screen tests for the role of 007. Other stars in the running include Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi, Harris Dickinson, and Oscar nominee Paul Mescal.

Interestingly, Knight, who also created Peaky Blinders and House of Guinness, will be writing the next installment of the spy franchise, which could be a point in Barton’s favor.

Bosses confirmed the search for the next Bond had begun back in May, five years after Daniel Craig ended his run as the famous British spy in 2021’s No Time To Die. Craig took over the role in 2006 and starred in five Bond movies, including Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and the aforementioned No Time to Die.

“While we don’t plan to comment on specific details during the casting process, we’re excited to share more news with 007 fans as soon as the time is right,” a spokesperson said at the time.

Six actors are reportedly set to screen-test to become the next James Bond

Current odds to land the role:
Jack Barton 37%
Callum Turner 24%
Jack Lowden 22%
Jacob Elordi 12%
Paul Mescal 8%
Harris Dickinson 13% pic.twitter.com/ms7GhVV2Cs

— Kalshi Film (@Kalshi_Film) August 26, 2026

Fans reacted in shock to the news that Barton was now a favorite for the role, despite his name not previously being mentioned.

“Wait jack f***ing barton…..I didn’t know this was an option,” wrote one X user.

“Jack Barton leading the Bond race? Didn’t have that on my bingo card,” said another.

“Backing Jack Barton since I have no idea who he is,” another added.

Another wrote, “Of course it has to be the less known of them all, makes no sense to have a household name get into the suit.”

“Give it to an unknown actor and let’s shake up some wigs,” one fan added.

“Just watched a few snippets of Jack Barton as John Tonkin in SAS: Rogue Heroes. I’m implore you to do the same as he does have a certain gravitas about him which I think would make him a great James Bond,” another commenter said. “I was initially skeptical about his look, but my mind has changed.”

“I fully support Jack Barton,” said another.

What do you think of the rumors? Who would you like to play the next Bond? Let us know below.