In February 2025, Amazon assumed creative control of the James Bond film series, prompting Jeff Bezos to publicly ask social-media users for their pick for the next 007. The question drew criticism from Debbie McWilliams, the franchise’s longtime casting director, who selected the last three Bonds. McWilliams, now retired, argued that such public polling undermines the selection process, noting that the eventual choice should remain unknown to preserve the character’s mystery. Her remarks come as auditions reportedly enter a second round, with actors like Callum Turner, Harris Dickinson, and Jacob Elordi rumored to be in contention—names she has dismissed as too famous to embody the role effectively. The exchange highlights ongoing tension over who controls the iconic spy series’ future direction.