Jonathan Bailey, known for his role in Netflix’s Bridgerton and originally from the Wallingford area of Oxfordshire, has attracted the most significant betting interest in becoming the next James Bond.
The 38-year-old performer has emerged as the most popular choice among gamblers, with his likelihood of securing the iconic 007 role increasing substantially after a surge in wagers.
Odds on Bailey taking over the espionage franchise have been shortened dramatically from 40/1 to 16/1, according to information compiled by Oddschecker.
While he does not currently lead the overall betting market, the actor who portrayed Viscount Anthony Bridgerton has accounted for 22 per cent of all bets placed this week on who will succeed Daniel Craig in the long-running spy series.
His odds have improved enough to place him among the top six candidates, though Scottish performer Jack Lowden continues to dominate at 4/6 odds-on, with Callum Turner positioned at 5/4.
The list of potential replacements also features Jack O’Connell alongside Robert Pattinson, Harris Dickinson, Henry Cavill and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.
Bailey’s early years were spent in Oxfordshire before he established a career spanning both theatre and screen, earning recognition as one of Britain’s prominent acting talents.
Beyond his breakthrough Bridgerton role, he has appeared in Fellow Travelers and featured in the cinematic adaptation of Wicked, sharing the screen with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.
As anticipation builds among followers of the Bond franchise regarding the identity of the next leading man, Bailey’s increased support has positioned him as a notable contender in ongoing discussions.