Steven Knight Confirmed to Pen Next James Bond Film, Denis Villeneuve to Direct
Steven Knight, the acclaimed creator of Peaky Blinders, has been officially confirmed by Amazon MGM Studios as the writer for the next James Bond film. The highly anticipated movie will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, known for his work on the Dune franchise, Blade Runner 2049, and Arrival.
The news follows the departure of longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson earlier this year. Knight expressed his excitement about joining the iconic franchise, telling BBC Radio 5 Live Breakfast that writing a Bond film has “always been on my bucket list.” He hopes his lifelong fandom will allow him to “produce something that’s the same but different, and better, stronger and bolder.”
While the creative team is taking shape, the crucial question of who will portray 007 remains unanswered. Daniel Craig stepped down from the role in 2021 after five successful films, sparking widespread speculation. Though British actors Aaron Taylor-Johnson and James Norton, along with Irish actor Paul Mescal, have been rumored as contenders, Knight offered no hints, simply stating he couldn’t provide an answer.
Knight brings a strong pedigree to the project. He is widely recognized for the BAFTA-winning BBC One drama Peaky Blinders and was Oscar-nominated for his 2004 film Dirty Pretty Things. His other notable works include the 2024 BBC One series This Town and the Oscar-nominated Spencer (2021).
The new Bond film is being produced by Amy Pascal and David Heyman. Industry reports, including from Variety, suggest a potential release in 2028. Knight acknowledged the “high pressure” of the job but remains focused on delivering his best.
