Elden Ring’s Messmer The Impaler Actor Is Reportedly In The Running To Be The Next James Bond
Two actors with video game credits are reportedly in the running for the next James Bond role. Following reports that Battlefield 1’s Jack Lowden is circling the role of 007 in the upcoming Bond 26 film, Page Six has now reported that Elden Ring actor Jack Barton is also among the candidates being considered.
Director Denis Villeneuve and casting director Nina Gold are reportedly auditioning a “stream of unknowns” for the iconic role, with both Lowden and Barton in the mix. Barton played Messmer the Impaler in Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, marking his sole video game credit.
Beyond his work in gaming, Barton has built a career in television and film. His television appearances include roles in Steven Knight’s SAS: Rogue Heroes and the science fiction series War of the Worlds. In film, he appeared in Yorgos Lanthimos’ 2023 Oscar-winning movie Poor Things.
According to the report, Barton will participate in a screen test for the Bond role, as will other contenders still under consideration. The casting search reflects a strategic pivot toward lesser-known talent for the franchise’s next chapter, following Daniel Craig’s final appearance as 007. With Denis Villeneuve directing Bond 26, the production team appears focused on discovering fresh faces rather than pursuing established stars for the coveted role.