‘We’ve got Daniel for one more Bond film’
HEARTTHROB Daniel Craig is being lined up to play James Bond one more time before he is replaced in the coveted role.
Daniel has delighted producers with his fourth 007 movie, SPECTRE, which made a staggering £41.3million in its opening week in the UK. But he has been tightlipped in interviews to promote the film about whether he will do another one.
Now film bosses are confident he will play the secret agent a fifth time, meaning they can put back their agonising decision on who will be the next 007 for at least three years.
Producer Michael G Wilson confirmed on Friday they expect to have Craig for a fifth time, saying: “We think we’ve got him but we don’t have a contract.”
A Bond source said: “Daniel has been a huge success as 007 and is loved by fans so he isn’t going anywhere yet.
“The directors know they would be daft to replace him at a stage where he is so popular. It’s almost certain he will do one more outing as Bond.
“Then the search for a replacement will start. Daniel has always made it quite clear that he will be available to play the role for as long as he is required.”
The Cheshire-born star, married to British actress Rachel Weisz, 45, replaced Pierce Brosnan as Bond in 2006. He won rave reviews for his debut in Casino Royale. SPECTRE hit cinemas in the US this weekend and early indications are that it will be a big hit there, too. After a series of positive reviews, fans have flocked to the opening weekend. US movie marketing expert Jeff Kelly of Whisky Tango Entertainment said: “The figures are very impressive for this movie.
“The positive word of mouth about it has prompted many people to see the movie on Friday, and we expect to see those numbers swell dramatically. There is huge interest in seeing the stunts, fight scenes and the resurrection of SPECTRE.”
When Craig finally does quit, possible replacements being touted are Homeland actor Damien Lewis, Tom Hardy and Idris Elba.