Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult Tested for James Bond Role

The search for the next 007 just got a lot more interesting. According to The Hollywood Reporter and Variety, Robert Pattinson and Nicholas Hoult have both screen-tested to play James Bond.

Per Variety, the tests reportedly took place the last weekend of October. The two actors join a shortlist that includes other British contenders, who have been frequently mentioned in previous reports.

This development is considered a surprise, as conventional wisdom suggested the producers might pick a less globally famous star. Pattinson is currently headlining the Batman franchise for DC Studios, while Hoult plays Lex Luthor in the DC Universe.

The project is being developed under new franchise director Denis Villeneuve, with whom Pattinson recently worked on 'Dune: Part Three'. Amazon MGM Studios, which now controls the Bond property, has not publicly commented on the latest casting speculation.