Elden Ring's Messmer May Become the Next James Bond

The Lands Between might be losing one of its most formidable figures, not to the Tarnished, but to the world of espionage. Jack Barton, the actor who brought the menacing Messmer the Impaler to life in Elden Ring's highly anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, is reportedly in contention to become the next James Bond.

This potential casting news comes from PageSix, which suggests that director Denis Villeneuve and casting director Nina Gold are exploring a range of fresh faces for the iconic role. Barton, whose sole video game credit is his impactful performance as Messmer, is said to be among a slate of contenders who will undergo screen tests in early September. While Barton's video game experience is limited, his presence in the critically acclaimed Elden Ring expansion showcases his ability to embody a powerful and memorable character. His resume also includes appearances in television series like SAS: Rogue Heroes and War of the Worlds, as well as a role in Yorgos Lanthimos's Oscar-winning film Poor Things.

A New 007 Era Dawns

The search for the next James Bond has been ongoing since Daniel Craig's departure in No Time to Die in 2021. Amazon MGM Studios, having acquired the franchise, is reportedly keen on ushering in a new era for the spy saga. Director Denis Villeneuve, known for his work on the Dune films and Blade Runner 2049, is tasked with steering the franchise forward. The selection process is said to be focusing on "a stream of unknowns," a strategy that has yielded success for the Bond franchise in the past, notably with Sean Connery and Daniel Craig themselves. Other actors reportedly in the mix for screen tests include Jack Lowden, Callum Turner, Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal, and Harris Dickson.

Fan Reactions and Franchise Futures

For Elden Ring fans, the prospect of Jack Barton stepping into James Bond's shoes is a fascinating crossover. Messmer the Impaler was a central antagonist in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, a character defined by his imposing presence and a mysterious, dark backstory. Barton's portrayal lent him an air of gravitas and menace that has clearly caught the attention of the Bond casting team. This move, if it materializes, would mark a significant career leap for Barton and underscore the growing influence of video game performances in broader entertainment. The gaming community often celebrates when actors from their favorite titles achieve mainstream success, and this rumor has certainly ignited discussion online about Barton's potential on the global stage.

What's Next

Screen tests for the role of James Bond are expected to begin in early September. Further details regarding Denis Villeneuve's vision for the next installment and official casting announcements are anticipated in the coming months as Amazon MGM Studios continues its deliberate search for the next cinematic icon.