Riz Ahmed Takes on James Bond in New Prime Video Series

Riz Ahmed has stepped into the world of espionage, albeit with a comedic twist, in his latest project. The Oscar-nominated actor and writer stars in the new Prime Video series Bait, which recently made its world premiere.

The series debuted on the opening night of the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, setting the stage for its upcoming streaming release. This marks a significant return to the festival for the acclaimed performer, who brings a unique story of artistic struggle to the screen.

In Bait, Ahmed portrays a struggling London actor who finds himself unexpectedly thrust into an existential journey. The series offers a comedic yet poignant look at the challenges and absurdities of pursuing a career in the performing arts.

As both the writer and star of the project, Ahmed has crafted a narrative that delves into the pressures of the industry. The character's journey is central to the series, providing a vehicle for exploring themes of ambition, identity, and resilience in the face of constant rejection.

I don’t mind who plays Bond as long as it is me.

The series premiered just as rumors began to circulate about other actors potentially taking on the iconic role of James Bond. When asked about the speculation surrounding fellow actor Jacob Elordi, Ahmed playfully addressed the topic before walking out of the interview, making his own aspirations for the 007 role clear.

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival served as the prestigious launchpad for Bait. Premiering on the festival's opening night, the series garnered attention for its unique premise and Ahmed's multifaceted involvement.

Following its festival debut, the series is set for a wider audience through its streaming partner. Prime Video will host the series for its official streaming premiere, scheduled for March 2026. This release strategy allows the series to build buzz from the festival circuit before reaching a global audience on the popular platform.

• World Premiere: 2026 Sundance Film Festival
• Streaming Platform: Prime Video
• Release Month: March 2026
• Genre: Comedy Series

Riz Ahmed is no stranger to critical acclaim. As an Oscar nominee, he has established a reputation for choosing complex and compelling roles. His decision to write and star in Bait demonstrates his continued commitment to creative control and storytelling.

The project highlights his growth as a filmmaker. By taking on both the writing and leading roles, Ahmed is able to fully realize his vision for the series, blending his comedic timing with the dramatic depth for which he is known.

The series also reflects a broader trend of actors taking on more production roles, using their platforms to bring unique stories to light. Bait is a testament to this creative evolution.

As the March 2026 premiere approaches, all eyes will be on Prime Video for the release of Bait. The series promises to be a standout comedy, driven by Ahmed's distinctive voice and performance.

The film festival circuit often sets the tone for the year's most talked-about projects. With its high-profile premiere at Sundance, Bait has already positioned itself as a series to watch, offering a fresh perspective on the life of an artist.

Viewers can look forward to a series that is both humorous and thought-provoking, exploring the fine line between ambition and obsession in the creative world.

The arrival of Bait on Prime Video marks a significant moment for Riz Ahmed and the upcoming television landscape. The series combines a unique premise with a celebrated creative team, ensuring a compelling viewing experience.

With its successful festival debut and a clear streaming release plan, the series is poised to make a strong impression. Audiences eager for intelligent comedy and a behind-the-scenes look at the acting world will find much to appreciate when the series streams this March.