The world of James Bond is expanding, and a new 007 has officially been named — though perhaps not the one fans have been expecting. While Amazon MGM Studios continues its search for the lead of its upcoming Bond film reboot, another corner of the franchise has already found its man.

A New 007 Steps Into the Spotlight

Isaac Rouse has been cast as the young James Bond in Big Finish Productions' Young Bond: SilverFin Part 1, an upcoming audio adaptation of Charlie Higson's 2005 novel. Rouse is best known for playing Ollie Chadwyck-Healey in The Crown, as well as Charlie Bucket in Sam Mendes' stage production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

The role didn't come easily — according to BigFinish.com, more than 500 actors auditioned for the part, with 12 finalists ultimately brought in before Rouse secured the role.

What Is 'Young Bond: SilverFin'?

SilverFin follows Bond during his teenage years, long before he becomes the legendary MI6 agent. The story begins with James at Eton before sending him to Scotland, where he encounters a mystery surrounding Loch SilverFin and a dangerous experiment. Big Finish's adaptation will span 16 half-hour episodes, divided across two box sets, for roughly eight hours of audio drama. The first episodes are scheduled to arrive in October 2026.

Meanwhile, the Big-Screen Bond Search Goes On

The untitled Bond film — directed by Denis Villeneuve (Dune) and written by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders), with Amy Pascal (Spider-Man: Homecoming) and David Heyman (the Harry Potter films) producing — is still searching for its lead. Casting director Nina Gold has been heading up that search.

Industry insider Daniel Richtman has claimed the film entered the "final round of casting" and that the studio "might have already found their guy." Names linked to the role have included Jacob Elordi (Euphoria), Theo James (The Gentlemen), Callum Turner (Eternity), and Jack Lowden (Slow Horses), who has emerged as one of the frontrunners. Page Six has reported that a number of actors have been shortlisted, though Amazon MGM Studios has not verified any of these rumors or made any official announcements. There is currently no release date for the film.

It's also worth noting that Patrick Gibson brought James Bond to life earlier this year as the face and voice of 007 in the IO Interactive video game 007 First Light.

So while the big-screen question remains unanswered, Isaac Rouse has already beaten hundreds of actors to officially become the latest performer to take on 007. What do you think of his casting? And who do you think should play Bond in the upcoming film? Let us know in the comments!