Robert Pattinson Became a Favorite For '007' Next James Bond

The final stretch of the search for the new James Bond is in full swing.

In a lengthy article about the process, Puck reported that Robert Pattinson, Jack Lowden, Josh O'Connor, and the other names vying for the role of 007 have received contracts that will take effect immediately if they are cast. Pattinson's contract is for three films, and he is considered the favorite in the industry.

Lowden and O'Connor have contracts for four films, according to the publication. But, Puck explains, Pattinson's contract was difficult to negotiate and happened in part because director Denis Villeneuve, who worked with the actor on Dune: Part 3, always wanted to test the actor.

Because of all this, the industry sees Pattinson as the favorite. The impression is that Amazon MGM Studios wouldn't have gone to such lengths to reach an agreement if there hadn't been an intention to hire Pattinson.

The other names in the running are Callum Turner and Nicholas Hoult.

Hoult and Pattinson, more established actors, auditioned after the original trio of Turner, Lowden, and O'Connor, and because of this, Puck's sources believe they are the two frontrunners. The feeling, they explain, is that Amazon wouldn't have auditioned the pair if they were fully satisfied with either of the earlier candidates.

Furthermore, it is said that the studio is interested in having an established star in the lead role. Bond, like other franchises, is no longer seen as infallible.