Daniel Craig has been making it quite clear that he would be disassociating himself with the Bond series of late. He went so far as to say that he would ‘slash his wrists’ than play Bond again.
Craig has been playing James Bond since his predecessor Pierce Brosnan’s departure since over 11 years. he has been a part of four Bond movies and ever since the promotion of the latest 007 film Spectre, he has been indicating the end of his Bond stint.
Craig’s immediate predecessor Pierce Brosnan was done as Bond at age 49 after four films; Craig is 48 and has also played 007 four times. That, and the actor’s apparent disinterest in continuing in the part, indicates that a new Bond may be on the way. And according to a recent report, that the decision has already been made.
The Daily Mail reports that Craig has rejected an offer to appear in two more James Bond films and is therefore done with the role. The report, citing unnamed sources, says Craig turned down an offer of £68 million (a little less than $100 million in U.S. dollars) for two more films. The report also states that Craig has been paid £38 million (about $55 million) for the four films to date.
“Daniel is done – pure and simple – he told top brass at MGM after Spectre. They threw huge amounts of money at him, but it just wasn’t what he wanted.’ ‘He had told people after shooting that this would be his final outing, but the film company still felt he could come around after Spectre if he was offered a money deal.”
Though confirmation reports about the same are still under wraps, though this rumour has risen a groundswell support for Tom Hiddleston to step in as Bond for the 25th Bond film, to the point where it would be a surprise at this point if it didn’t happen.
Regardless, Craig was a very good James Bond. He not only wore the tuxedo well, but he brought a new edge to the character. Two of his outings as 007 — Casino Royale and Skyfall — were among the best films in the series since the Connery era, and even though Quantum of Solace and Spectre both missed the mark critically, Craig wasn’t the problem with them. There may have been skepticism when he was first cast, but Craig’s years as Bond will be well-remembered.
There is no scheduled release date yet for the 25th James Bond film, but stay tuned here for news on when Craig or a new 007 is cast.
Source: The Daily Mail
