Robert Pattinson might be preparing to trade the Batmobile for an Aston Martin. The 40-year-old British actor has reportedly screen-tested for the role of James Bond, potentially putting him in contention to become the next 007 while he’s still portraying DC’s Dark Knight.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Pattinson participated in screen tests during the weekend of October 24, joining several other actors competing to succeed Daniel Craig.
The revelation is particularly surprising considering Pattinson’s established status as a Hollywood leading man and his ongoing commitment to The Batman franchise.
Amazon MGM Studios has not commented on the report, and no casting decision has been officially announced.
Batman Faces Some Competition
Pattinson isn’t the only actor hoping to inherit the legendary British secret agent’s license to kill.
Other reported contenders include Callum Turner, Jack Lowden, and Josh O’Connor, all 36 years old. Nicholas Hoult, who portrays Lex Luthor in James Gunn’s DC Universe, has also reportedly entered the competition.
Robert Pattinson. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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Interestingly, Hoult previously competed against Pattinson for the role of Batman before director Matt Reeves ultimately selected the former Twilight star.
Pattinson’s inclusion is somewhat unconventional. Historically, the Bond franchise has preferred casting actors who aren’t already established international superstars.
However, Amazon’s acquisition of creative control over the franchise in February 2025 could signal a willingness to abandon some longstanding traditions.
A Familiar Director Could Give Pattinson an Advantage
One particularly interesting element of Pattinson’s candidacy is his existing relationship with Denis Villeneuve.
The acclaimed filmmaker, responsible for Dune and Blade Runner 2049, is directing the next James Bond installment.
Zendaya as Chani in the Dune: Part 3 – YouTube @WarnerBros
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Pattinson recently worked with Villeneuve on Dune: Part Three, scheduled to arrive in theaters on December 18.
Pattinson has also demonstrated his versatility through collaborations with Christopher Nolan, Robert Eggers, and the Safdie brothers.
His performance in Nolan’s espionage thriller Tenet arguably offered audiences an early glimpse of how he might handle the action and intrigue associated with James Bond.
Could Batman and Bond Coexist?
The biggest obstacle might be Pattinson’s existing superhero commitments.
The actor is currently filming The Batman Part II, continuing Matt Reeves’ interpretation of Gotham City’s legendary vigilante.
Taking on Bond would mean simultaneously carrying two of entertainment’s most recognizable franchises, potentially creating substantial scheduling challenges.
However, the opportunity would also be extraordinary.
Daniel Craig concluded his five-film tenure with 2021’s No Time to Die, leaving producers searching for an actor capable of defining the character for another generation.
The next installment will feature a screenplay by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, with Amy Pascal and David Heyman producing.
Filming is reportedly expected in 2027, with a potential theatrical release in 2028.
For now, Pattinson remains one of several contenders rather than the confirmed successor to Craig.
Still, the possibility of the same actor portraying both Batman and James Bond is fascinating. And if Pattinson ultimately wins the role, audiences might discover that Gotham City’s greatest detective has a surprising amount in common with Britain’s most famous secret agent.
Do you think Robert Pattinson could become Bond? Sound off and let us know!
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