We are months away from the release of the 25th James Bond film, “No Time to Die.” And not only is that a bit of a milestone for the franchise (and film, in general), but the project also marks the final time that Daniel Craig is expected to suit up as 007. Well, at least that’s what he says. With recent rumors that his time as Bond might be coming to an end, and perhaps a directing career in the franchise in the future, the actor is here to finally set the record straight.
Speaking to the German outlet Express, while promoting his new film “Knives Out,” Craig minced no words when it came to his future (or lack thereof) in the James Bond franchise. When asked if “No Time to Die” marks his final outing as the super spy, Craig replied with an enthusiastic “Yes!”
Now, just to acknowledge the large elephant in the room, this is far from the first time that the actor has claimed he was done with Bond. Back in 2015, while speaking to Time Out while promoting “Spectre,” Craig was asked the very same question. He responded with a now-legendary answer, “I’d rather break this glass and slash my wrists. No, not at the moment. Not at all. That’s fine. I’m over it at the moment. We’re done. All I want to do is move on.”
Clearly, that didn’t pan out in the rather graphic way he teased. Instead, Craig signed on for “No Time to Die” and the rest is history.
But what about recent rumors that producers of the Bond franchise are keen on keeping the actor around to maybe direct the next film, ‘Bond 26?’ Well, in typical fashion, Craig gave another cut and dry answer.
“For God’s sake, no!” he replied.
The actor said that he’s not interested in directing because he rather enjoys his typical work hours as a performer in front of the camera and has no interest in stepping into the role of filmmaker.
So, for now, at least, it appears that “No Time to Die” is going to be Craig’s last foray into the realm of James Bond, both in front of and behind the camera. So, fans should enjoy it while it lasts.
“No Time to Die” arrives in theaters on April 8, 2020.