Matthew Vaughn is Reportedly the Frontrunner for Bond 26

The English director behind cult films such as Layer Cake, Kick-Ass and the Kingsman trilogy is now rumoured to be the new favourite to helm Bond 26.

The scoop comes from well-known industry insider Daniel Richtman (aka DanielRPK) who posted the news on his Patreon page. The post is behind a paywall for patrons only, but Richtman described Matthew Vaughn as being the Bond producers’ “top choice” to direct the next film.

A similar rumour emerged earlier this summer when Giant Freakin Robot claimed that Vaughn was the frontrunner. At the time the story didn’t make the rounds since Giant Freakin Robot are notorious for being unreliable with their exclusives. It was only picked up by the Daily Express which isn’t credible even for tabloid standards.

With Richtman placing his reputation on the line this adds a bit more credibility to the rumour, even if the story should still be taken with a pinch of salt.

In a 2021 interview with Screen Rant, Vaughn interestingly dismissed his chances of making a James Bond film saying “I don't think the Bond people would touch me with a stick. They don't like me. I don't know. You know, to be blunt. I love Bond. It's obviously a huge influence on me.” This statement doesn’t bode well for the rumour but there’s a possibility that the producers have warmed to him in recent years.

So what would a James Bond film directed by Matthew Vaughn look like? The filmmaker has plenty of experience making action and spy movies, with the Kingsman serving as his (spoof) take on a modern Bond film. Vaughn’s filmography is a shameless blend of stylised action and wacky comedy beats. This would make him a great match for a lighter tone Bond film if that’s the direction the producers wish to take.

It’s worth noting that Vaughn has a preference for collaborating with the same actors throughout his projects whether as director or producer. These actors include male leads Taron Egerton and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. Both of which have been rumoured to be the next James Bond at one point. Vaughn teaming up with either of them again could prove to be the ultimate synergy for Bond 26.

Looking ahead at Matthew Vaughn’s slate he’s allegedly helming a movie in the new DC Universe titled The Authority. Although many insiders have speculated that this movie is a red herring placeholder to prevent any leaks on other DCU projects.

There are plans for a Kingsman limited TV series and Vaughn has already confirmed there’ll be a fourth movie. Elsewhere Vaughn is finishing post-production on Argylle – a spy thriller based on the novel of the same name starring Henry Cavill. The film will release in February 2024 and its success will be paramount in the Bond producers’ choice to greenlight Vaughn’s vision.

Source: Daniel Richtman’s Patreon (for patrons only)