Excitement is building around the next James Bond installment — and behind the scenes, sparks are flying. Denis Villeneuve, director of Dune and Blade Runner 2049, is teaming up with acclaimed writer Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders, House of Guinness) for James Bond 26, and insiders reveal that the creative process has been nothing short of intense.
“It’s the same but different,” Knight told Radio Times, hinting that Villeneuve’s vision could push Bond into uncharted territory, breaking traditional rules while staying true to the franchise’s DNA.
Knight, who was officially announced as the writer earlier this year, described the writing process as exploratory and unpredictable. “You don’t know what’s going to happen until you start writing,” he said, alluding to the edginess he’s known for in previous projects. Interestingly, he confirmed he’s developing the script without a Bond actor in mind: “Er… yes,” he said when asked if the script was being written with a particular star.
Villeneuve and Knight’s collaboration is being produced by Amy Pascal and David Heyman, ensuring the film has the backing of major industry heavyweights. Sources familiar with early script sessions say the pair spent nine hours locked in the room, debating tone, stakes, and the character’s evolution — with Villeneuve advocating for a cinematic, visually bold Bond while Knight pushes for narrative depth and modern complexity.
Knight described the opportunity as a personal milestone. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, he said, “Working on Bond has always been on my bucket list. Being invited to do it is fantastic. I hope to create something that’s the same but different, better, stronger, and bolder.”
Fans of Knight’s current series, House of Guinness, can catch the show on Netflix starting Thursday, September 25, 2025. The series stars Anthony Boyle, Louis Partridge, Emily Fairn, and Fionn O’Shea, exploring the aftermath of Sir Benjamin Guinness’ death and the impact of his will on his family and Dublin society.
Meanwhile, James Bond 26 promises to be a landmark entry in the franchise. While plot details remain under wraps, insiders hint that the Villeneuve-Knight collaboration could redefine what audiences expect from 007, combining high-octane action with unprecedented character depth.
The new issue of Radio Times (on sale September 16, 2025) features the full Knight interview, giving fans a rare glimpse into the intense creative process behind the next cinematic spy epic.
With Villeneuve’s visual mastery and Knight’s narrative edge, James Bond 26 is shaping up to be not just another Bond film, but a reimagined, rule-breaking adventure — one that may redefine the franchise for years to come.