Daniel Craig's involvement with the James Bond franchise has been in doubt ever since the actor started doing the press tour for last year's "Spectre." Between Craig's less-than-enthusiastic public comments and the behind-the-scenes rumors, it was clear that being the world's foremost cinematic spy was taking its toll on the 48-year-old actor. As a result, the unofficial search for a new James Bond was spearheaded by bookmakers, with Tom Hiddleston emerging as a recent favorite.
Yet nothing official had come from Craig regarding his future as James Bond. While that hasn't changed, a new unconfirmed report suggests that Craig is hanging up the berretta. The British actor reportedly walked away from a two-film payday that would have seen him collect almost $100 million.
"Daniel is done - pure and simple - he told top brass at MGM after Spectre," according to the report. "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."
Craig has served as 007 in four films across 10 years, so he's earned the right to walk away when he feels comfortable. Plus, he's been injured several times while filming his various Bond outings, most recently requiring knee surgery after a skiing accident during "Spectre."
The studio may have known this was coming, as "Spectre's" conclusion was structured to serve as a farewell to Craig's Bond with his character riding off into the sunset with Lea Seydoux's Madeline. It was a fitting end, should it truly be the last time we see Craig working for MI6. As the rights for the film franchise are set to become available soon, now may be the right time to call it quits for the incumbents.
If Craig is indeed finished with 007, will Hiddleston be his replacement? Or, will other favorites/dark horse candidates such as Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, Michael Fassbender or Damian Lewis be offered the role? We'll keep you posted as more details (hopefully) emerge about the future of the James Bond franchise.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
