The official writing credits for the upcoming ‘Bond’ film “No Time to Die” reads, “Neil Purvis & Robert Wade, Scott Z. Burns with Cary Joji Fukunaga and Phoebe Waller-Bridge.” Yes, that’s five separate people, with five unique ideas about where the next James Bond outing should go in terms of plot, tone, and characters. However, even with those big names, it appears that the one that anyone ever really cares to talk about is Phoebe Waller-Bridge. But you better be careful how you talk about her inclusion to the writing process when you talk to star Daniel Craig.
Speaking to The Sunday Times (via IndieWire), Craig is not here for anyone that wants to ask ridiculous questions about Waller-Bridge being hired to help shape the “No Time to Die” script. In fact, when Craig was asked by the reporter about whether or not Waller-Bridge was hired to provide a more inclusive angle to the ‘Bond’ Franchise, the actor pushed back.
READ MORE: Phoebe Waller-Bridge Is Rumored To Be The Producers’ Top Choice To Help Write ‘Bond 26’
“Look, we’re having a conversation about Phoebe’s gender here, which is fucking ridiculous,” Craig said. “She’s a great writer. Why shouldn’t we get Phoebe onto ‘Bond?’”
He added, “I know where you’re going, but I don’t actually want to have that conversation. I know what you’re trying to do, but it’s wrong. It’s absolutely wrong. She’s a fucking great writer. One of the best English writers around. I said, ‘Can we get her on the film?’ That’s where I came from.”
The “No Time to Die” actor continued by explaining why he views Waller-Bridge as “brilliant” and what projects of hers made him think that she’d be a good addition to the ‘Bond’ team.
He explained, “I had my eye on her ever since the first ‘Fleabag,’ and then I saw ‘Killing Eve’ and what she did with that and just wanted her voice. It is so unique — we are very privileged to have her on board.”
Obviously, Craig is very sensitive to the fact that Waller-Bridge is getting a lot of attention as one of the five writers credited on the film. However, you can’t blame the reporter for asking. According to just about every report from folks who know such things, the “Fleabag” creator was asked to help take a pass at the ‘Bond’ script and make sure that the female characters are given a fair shake, specifically because there are rumors that “No Time to Die” will feature a new, female character adopting the 007 moniker.
But maybe just don’t ask Craig about that, okay?
“No Time to Die” is set to arrive in theaters on April 8, 2020.
