James Norton channels his inner James Bond at Royal Academy Summer Party

The handsome actor put on a suave show at the Royal Academy Summer Party last night.

English actor James Norton looked every inch the suave spy at last night’s Royal Academy Summer Party in London.

James Norton attends the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2025 at Burlington House on June 11, 2025 in Londonplaceholder image
James Norton attends the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2025 at Burlington House on June 11, 2025 in London | Getty Images

The Grantchester actor channelled his inner Sean Connery at last night’s event, donning tailored cream trousers and a billowing blue and white striped shirt.

The actor, who is believed to be in the running for the next James Bond, paired his chic outfit with a pair of slick shades. He wore his hair in a messy tousle and debuted sexy stubble.

We think this look would be very befitting of our next Bond... perhaps on a yacht?

James Norton attends the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2025 at Burlington House on June 11, 2025 in Londonplaceholder image
James Norton attends the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2025 at Burlington House on June 11, 2025 in London | Getty Images

Last night’s party launched the Royal Academy’s annual Summer Exhibition, which showcases a diverse array of contemporary works, including prints, paintings, films, photography, sculpture, and architectural works.

Most pieces are available to buy, and sales directly support the exhibiting artists and the future of the Royal Academy – a charity which receives no government funding.

Last night’s event was attended by several famous faces, including Paloma Faith and Alexa Chung.

The Happy Valley star has hit headlines this week, after opening up about his battle with diabetes. The actor, 39, was diagnosed at the age of 22.

James Norton attends the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2025placeholder image
James Norton attends the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition Preview Party 2025 | Getty Images

He revealed that a ‘health crisis’ unfolded during Jude Law’s speech at the GQ Men of the Year Awards last year. He told the Off Menu podcast that his blood sugar levels dropped drastically after being served a ‘fashion meal’ of smoked trout, with a lengthy wait until the main course.

He said he was left ‘dripping with sweat’, adding that pandemonium broke loose after he asked the waiters for help. Eventually, he was given some orange juice, a Pret chocolate bar, and a bowl of potatoes, which he consumed during Jude Law’s speech.

Although James was born in Lambeth, London, the star grew up in North Yorkshire. He attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and Fitzwilliam College in Cambridge.

Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice