Next James Bond: Scottish newcomer given another boost to 007 chances as evidence emerges amid ‘contention’ rumours

Actor Stuart Martin has been dealt yet another piece of encouraging news following the reports he was being eyed by bosses to play the next James Bond.

The news comes as a confirmed identity of Daniel Craig’s successor remains a mystery with bosses at production studio Eon still yet to settle on a name to step into the famous tuxedo.

And the race to replace Craig has been made all the more complicated by reports of a feud between long-time Bond producer Barbara Broccoli and collaborators at Amazon following its acquisition of MGM.

Broccoli even reportedly called execs at the streaming giants “f***ing idiots” due to differences when it came to the creative direction of the Bond franchise.

Nevertheless, conversations reportedly remain ongoing and it’s Martin who’s emerged as a surprise new name in the running after months of the likes of Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Theo James, James Norton, and many others linked to the role.

An LA movie consultant who has worked with the Bond franchise is the source to have sparked the subject of Martin’s ties to the franchise.

They told MailOnline: “Stuart is the name that has been discussed in Bond circles by those in the know. 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 would be the first Scot since Sean Connery to take on the role but still has “hurdles to jump through” with Eon.

However, Martin’s calibre of stardom is something that reportedly isn’t playing a part with Bond bosses, with the source adding: “And let’s not forget, Eon doesn’t give a damn whether the man who lands the job is famous or not.

“It is about getting the man they want and who they feel is best suited for this life changing experience. It is more pressure, scrutiny and stress than any other movie role.”

Following the headlines that have been in the past few days, the Bond hopeful have been given a new boost thanks to bookmakers shifting their markets to accommodate Martin’s presence in the conversation.

And he’s been priced right among actors who’ve been frontrunners to replace Craig ever since he bowed out of the franchise.

Martin has been priced at a lowly 10/1 to take on the part following the reports.

William Hill spokesperson, Lee Phelps, said to GB News: “The search for Daniel Craig’s successor as James Bond has taken another intriguing turn, with Scottish actor Stuart Martin gaining significant attention as a serious contender—potentially becoming the first Scot to play 007 since Sean Connery.

“The 39-year-old has entered the market at 10/1 with us, placing him among strong contenders such as Josh O’Connor (9/4), James Norton (4/1), and Paul Mescal (7/1).”

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However, Martin is by no means a shoo-in for the role as some very familiar faces remain outright favourites.

Phelps explained: “Theo James and Aaron Taylor-Johnson have been our ‘yo-yoing’ favourites for much of the race, currently leading the betting at 6/4 and 2/1, respectively.

“However, with speculation heating up, we expect plenty more movement in the coming months.”

Details on Bond 26 remain scarce as a plot, script, and lead actor still remain under wraps.