Owen Painter to be the next James Bond?

Is Painter set to be the next James Bond? Rumors that the producers are looking for someone slightly different to play James Bond emerged in February 2026. One of the names who keeps cropping up is Owen Painter.

UPDATE 20/03/2026 : This story seems to be false. (read more)

Every man, at some point in his life, wishes he could be James Bond. And with the news that Daniel Craig may well be out as 007, there are a whole bunch of actors from London to Los Angeles wondering what they could bring to the role.

Could Owen Painter become the Seventh James Bond?

Painter’s star has been rising in Hollywood in recent years thank to critically acclaimed roles in Wednesday (2022-). His commercial appeal is growing, too.

The question for Painter now is – what next?

Three reasons Owen Painter would be good for the James Bond franchise

1. It would clarify that Bond is a rotating identity: If M can be a woman, why can't James Bond be a 28-year-old American?
2. No other performers could be nearly as cool and broodingly suave as Painter.
3. It would give Owen Painter a chance to play a lover, as well as a fighter.

This 'Painter To Play James Bond' Rumor had the internet in a frenzy

Twitter was flooded again Thursday with loads of tweets related to the rumor. Some fans even launched an online Facebook page called We Want Owen Painter for James Bond.

“His name is Painter. Owen Painter!”
— Alan Sepintree (@sepintree) March 19, 2026

“He was perfect as Isaac Night in Wednesday, he will be tremendous portraying James Bond.”
— The Clear Observer (@clearobserver) March 19, 2026

“An American James Bond!?! Is it some kind of a joke?”
— Boris Kleinman (@UKBoris) March 19, 2026

“Now, this might be a bit of a controversial pick for the role. But think about it: Painter has always been a skilled actor. He's also known for his wit.”
— Claire Stone (@averageclaire) March 19, 2026

Rumors about Owen Painter stepping into the role's next iteration have been floating about for a while now. He is characterized by being smooth, slick, handsome, rugged and charming. These are definitely the characteristics needed to play James Bond. Don’t you agree?

Do you think Owen Painter should be the next James Bond?

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