Shaken, Not Stirred: Patrick Gibson Announced as James Bond in 007 First Light

The recent State of Play showcase dedicated to 007 First Light from developer IO Interactive was a major event for the gaming community. While the gameplay reveal gave fans a thrilling look at the action, stealth, and cinematic sequences, it also served as the official announcement of the game’s full cast. After months of intense speculation, the actor chosen to portray the iconic spy has been confirmed, along with a stellar lineup of talent bringing other classic and new characters to life.

A New James Bond: The Casting of Patrick Gibson

The most significant revelation from the showcase was the casting of Patrick Gibson as James Bond. The 30-year-old Irish actor, known for his roles in popular series such as The OA and Shadow and Bone, will be the voice and likeness of this new, younger version of the spy. IO Interactive has described the game as an origin story, following a 26-year-old Bond as he begins his journey in the MI6 program and works toward earning his “00” status. Gibson’s casting marks a departure from the more established, big-name actors typically associated with the role. According to an interview with IOI’s narrative director Martin Emborg, this was a deliberate choice to allow the character’s story to stand on its own without the weight of an actor’s previous roles. Gibson brings a brashness and an excitable confidence that perfectly suits this inexperienced take on the character.

The New MI6: A Stellar Supporting Cast

A new Bond game would not be complete without the classic supporting cast, and 007 First Light has assembled a talented and diverse group of actors to fill these iconic roles. The full list of revealed cast members includes:

• Priyanga Burford as M: Known for her work in television, Burford will portray the formidable head of MI6, a character whose relationship with Bond is a central part of the series.
• Alastair Mackenzie as Q: A veteran actor from series like The Crown and Andor, Mackenzie will be the voice of Bond’s brilliant and witty gadget master.
• Kiera Lester as Miss Moneypenny: A relative newcomer, Lester takes on the role of M’s secretary, a character who is often a key ally and foil for Bond.
• Noémie Nakai as Miss Roth: Nakai, who appeared in Tokyo Vice, will voice a mysterious new character who appears to be a key ally in the game, a figure who partners with Bond in car chases.
• Lennie James as John Greenway: The acclaimed actor from The Walking Dead and Line of Duty will play a brand-new character, described as Bond’s mentor, a figure who will likely be crucial to the game’s origin story.

A Fresh Take on a Timeless Character

The inclusion of new, original characters like John Greenway and Miss Roth, alongside the returning mainstays, adds an intriguing layer to the game’s narrative. It shows that while 007 First Light will be filled with nods to the classic Bond universe, it is also carving out its own unique space and lore. With a new, younger Bond and a fresh cast to support him, the game is poised to deliver a compelling origin story that both honors the franchise’s legacy and takes it in an exciting new direction. The stage is set for a new era of James Bond gaming, and with this talented cast, it seems to be in good hands. The game is scheduled to release on March 27, 2026, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2, promising a thrilling adventure for fans and newcomers alike.