Scottish Actor Stuart Martin Emerges as Frontrunner for Next James Bond

LONDON, United Kingdom — Scottish actor Stuart Martin has reportedly entered “serious contention” to become the next James Bond, following secretive talks with Eon Productions, the company behind the iconic spy franchise. The 38-year-old actor, known for his roles in Zack Snyder‘s Army of Thieves and the Victorian crime series Miss Scarlet and The Duke, could become the first Scot to play 007 since Sean Connery debuted in 1962’s Dr. No.

Sources close to the franchise revealed that Martin has impressed Bond producers with his decade-long body of work, including his physicality and action-packed performances. “Stuart is the name that has been discussed in Bond circles by those in the know,” said an LA-based movie consultant with ties to the franchise. “He is in serious contention. No one will confirm this because Eon goes all out to deny and shy away from anything concerning casting, but it would be an amazing milestone to have a Scottish Bond again.”

Martin, who stands at 6 feet 2 inches, has garnered attention for his rugged looks and relatively low profile, qualities that fans and insiders believe make him a strong candidate. His breakout role came in Channel 4‘s comedy-drama Babylon in 2014, followed by notable performances in historical dramas like Medici: Masters of Florence and Jamestown. His portrayal of tough guy Bradley Cage in Army of Thieves showcased his ability to handle high-octane stunts, further boosting his Bond credentials.

“We got to do some really cool stuff with some of the heists,” Martin told Lewis magazine about his work on Army of Thieves. “Our stunt director had us doing crazy stuff, jumping into the back of moving vans with the camera. It was a lot of fun and looks pretty cool.” To prepare for the role, Martin underwent rigorous physical training, including boot camps and gym sessions in Prague. “Brad is a muscle head, so I was just smashing the gym and training in the months leading up to try and give him that look and feel,” he said.

If selected, Martin would follow in the footsteps of Daniel Craig, who left the role after 2021’s No Time to Die. The search for the next Bond has been a closely guarded process, with Eon Productions prioritizing suitability over fame. “Eon doesn’t give a damn whether the man who lands the job is famous or not,” the consultant added. “It is about getting the man they want and who they feel is best suited for this life-changing experience.”

Other actors rumored to be in the running include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Callum Turner, James Norton, and Paul Mescal. However, Taylor-Johnson’s prospects have reportedly dimmed following the underwhelming reception of his recent film Kraven the Hunter.

The future of the Bond franchise has been uncertain since Amazon‘s $8.45 billion acquisition of MGM in 2021. While Eon Productions retains creative control, tensions between the two companies have occasionally surfaced. Despite these challenges, the search for the next 007 continues, with Martin emerging as a surprising yet compelling contender.