Scott Rose-Marsh Reportedly Screen Tested for James Bond 26
A relatively unknown British actor, Scott Rose-Marsh, has reportedly screen tested for the role of James Bond in the upcoming film James Bond 26, marking a significant development in the ongoing speculation surrounding the franchise’s future.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Rose-Marsh, whose previous acting credits include Krays: Code of Silence, Yr Amgueddfa, and Wolves of War, was involved in a Bond 26 screen test in late June 2025. This audition reportedly took place shortly after Denis Villeneuve was officially confirmed as the film’s director.
As noted by JoBlo, Rose-Marsh was asked to read sides from the 1995 Bond classic GoldenEye, as well as early excerpts from the new script written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight. The key instruction given to the actor during the test was to avoid impersonating any previous Bond, suggesting that producers are seeking a fresh interpretation of the iconic role.
Notably, Rose-Marsh appears to be a redhead—making him a potential first in the franchise’s history. If cast, he would become the first ginger James Bond, breaking a long-standing visual tradition for the character.
This casting development comes amid earlier reports that Amazon, which acquired the James Bond franchise for $1 billion earlier in 2025, was seeking a much younger actor, ideally in his 20s, to take over the role. As highlighted by World of Reel, Rose-Marsh’s age—37—would challenge that reported mandate. Coincidentally, Daniel Craig was also 37 when Casino Royale debuted in 2006, making Rose-Marsh’s age a plausible match for the role, despite earlier rumors.
To date, Rose-Marsh is the only actor publicly linked to the Bond 26 casting process. While Eon Productions and Amazon have not issued an official statement, and Rose-Marsh’s representatives have declined to comment, the report adds further momentum to speculation surrounding who will succeed Daniel Craig.
Additional coverage from BroBible and Euronews reinforces the story, although it remains unclear whether Rose-Marsh’s screen test places him at the top of the shortlist—or is simply part of a broader audition process.
As the search for the next 007 continues, the reported casting of a lesser-known actor like Rose-Marsh suggests that the Bond franchise may be pivoting toward a bold, unconventional choice. With Denis Villeneuve directing and Steven Knight writing, fans can expect James Bond 26 to blend high-concept filmmaking with a potentially unorthodox lead.
For now, fans will have to wait for official confirmation—but speculation is only heating up.