MOVIE NEWS – Ever since Daniel Craig’s departure, the search for the next James Bond has been filled with speculation, with names like Idris Elba, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and even Henry Cavill dominating the conversation. However, a lesser-known actor has now entered “serious contention” for the role. Much like the original 007, Sean Connery, he hails from Scotland.

Stuart Martin, recognized for his roles in Zack Snyder’s Netflix productions such as Rebel Moon and Army of Thieves, has quietly built a diverse career since appearing in the British series Taggart in 2009 and making a brief appearance in Russell Crowe’s Robin Hood (2010). One of his most notable roles was in the PBS series Miss Scarlet and the Duke, where he played the Duke of Wellington for 24 episodes.

While Bond casting speculation often centers around A-list actors, history has shown that many previous Bonds were not household names before taking on the role. With the franchise potentially aiming for a fresh start after the dramatic conclusion of No Time to Die, choosing an actor without an extensive Hollywood resume might be exactly what the series needs.

Could Stuart Martin Really Be the Next James Bond?

Though Martin’s name isn’t at the top of most Bond fan-casting lists, those who saw him in Army of Thieves might see the appeal. His portrayal of Bradley Cage featured intense stunt work and high-energy action sequences—exactly the kind of physicality expected from whoever takes over the role of Bond.

The idea has gained traction on social media, and insiders (via The Daily Mail) claim that Martin has already had “under the radar” discussions with Eon Productions. A source close to the matter stated:

“He is in serious contention. No one will officially confirm it, as Eon avoids speculation surrounding casting, but bringing a Scottish actor back into the role would be a huge milestone. And let’s not forget, Eon doesn’t care about fame. They only care about selecting the right actor, someone who fits their vision and can handle the extreme pressure, scrutiny, and stress that come with the role of James Bond.”

Fans have been suggesting Martin as a candidate for months, with many pointing out that he left his role in Miss Scarlet last year. His departure could indicate that he is preparing to take on the next iteration of 007. These new reports about his meetings with Eon have reignited discussions about his potential rise to the top of the ever-evolving Bond shortlist. But as always with Bond speculation, a new frontrunner could emerge at any moment.

Source: MovieWeb