Robert Pattinson reportedly negotiated fewer bond films and higher salary than rivals if cast in 007

Robert Pattinson reportedly negotiated a shorter commitment and higher salary than some of his James Bond rivals. The deal would only apply if he is selected as 007.

In his November 13 column for Puck, Matthew Belloni reported that Pattinson had secured terms for three potential films, compared to four for Jack Lowden and Josh O’Connor. Three sources close to the negotiations described the differences.

News of the 40-year-old actor’s audition emerged earlier this month, alongside reports that Nicholas Hoult had also been tested. Callum Turner is another name linked to the role.

The next part will be the first since Daniel Craig’s farewell in No time to die in 2021. Denis Villeneuve will direct, introducing a new leading man under the creative control of Amazon MGM Studios.

What Pattinson’s Bond Test Agreement Covers

Test deals establish the terms of the upcoming film and options for sequels before an actor is cast. They do not guarantee that additional films will be made.

Belloni did not disclose salary figures or specific commitments from Hoult and Turner. Its report therefore does not provide a complete comparison of the candidates’ packages.

Two sources described Pattinson’s negotiations as difficult. Belloni interpreted the filmmakers’ persistence as possible interest, without communicating a final decision regarding casting.

Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult go bond hunting

The Hollywood Reporter first reported Pattinson’s audition on November 6, with sources placing the tests on the weekend of October 24.

Variety confirmed that Hoult also tested. Both actors already have big franchises on their CV: Pattinson plays Batman and became a global star thanks to Duskwhile Hoult plays Lex Luthor in the current film Superman movies. Amazon declined to comment on the casting reports.

Pattinson also has a working relationship with Villeneuve through Dune: Part Three. Their collaboration will arrive in North American theaters on December 18, according to Warner Bros. Pattinson remains involved in The Batman: Part 2TheWrap reporting that he was returning to work on this sequel.

Villeneuve says casting is still underway

At a November 10 event at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles, GQ’s Zach Baron asked Villeneuve if Bond had been cast.

The director said the decision was still “in progress”, adding: “I’m stepping on the gas.”

Baron then asked him to blink once for Pattinson or twice for Turner. Villeneuve covered his eyes and smiled. The conversation was accompanied by a Dune: part two screening honoring him as director of the year by GQ.

Amazon MGM has assembled its new Bond team

Amazon MGM Studios announced on May 14 that the casting search was underway. The studio said it would not release details during the process and would share news when the time comes. It has not announced a lead actor, title or theatrical release date.

The new production follows a change in direction of the franchise. Amazon finalized its joint venture with Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson on March 24, 2025. The longtime Bond producers remain co-owners, while the studio controls creative decisions. Wilson withdrew from producing, and Broccoli said she wanted to pursue other projects.

Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is writing the screenplay, with Amy Pascal and David Heyman producing through Pascal Pictures and Heyday Films. Tanya Lapointe will be executive producer. The film will be the 26th installment in the main Bond series.