While it’s a bit unfair to those working on the most recent James Bond films, there appears to be a specter (no pun intended) that looms over the recent projects — Is this the end for Daniel Craig as 007? After “Spectre,” he had very harsh words when asked if he’d come back, eventually acquiescing and returning. Now, with “No Time to Die” coming in mere months, the question is raised once again, with Craig all but guaranteeing that he won’t return as Bond in future films. That begs the question, “Who is going to put on the tux?”
READ MORE: ‘No Time To Die’: Billie Eilish To Write & Perform The Theme For The Upcoming Bond Film
Well, according to a new Variety interview with ‘Bond’ producers (and decision-makers) Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson, the future could be diverse. But not that diverse.
But before the producers begin contemplating a James Bond world post-Craig, they’re not completely convinced that the actor is actually going to turn in his PPK and call it quits.
“I’m in total denial,” Broccoli said. “I’ve accepted what Daniel has said, but I’m still in denial. It’s too traumatic for me.”
READ MORE: Hans Zimmer Brought On To Score ‘No Time To Die’ After Composer Daniel Romer Departs
That being said, Broccoli, along with the gaggle of writers and director Cary Fukunaga, says that “No Time to Die” isn’t just the next James Bond film, but it also serves as a conclusion of sorts, considering this is likely Craig’s final film.
“We have come to an emotionally satisfying conclusion,” said Broccoli.
While they won’t hint at what’s next for Bond, including which actor can take over the franchise, Wilson hints that there might be a very different 007 in the future.
“You think of him as being from Britain or the Commonwealth, but Britain is a very diverse place,” Wilson said.
But let’s not forget one thing, according to Broccoli, no matter how diverse they go, Bond is James Bond, and the character is going to stay that way.
“He can be of any color, but he is male,” explained Broccoli. “I believe we should be creating new characters for women — strong female characters. I’m not particularly interested in taking a male character and having a woman play it. I think women are far more interesting than that.”
The idea of a female Bond has been debated for months amongst fans. Some say that there’s no reason, inherently, why James Bond has to be male. But there are others that feel a woman should be able to forge her own path with a spy series that isn’t reliant on the Bond name. Either way, debate it until you’re all blue in the face because as long as Broccoli and Wilson are in control, 007 will be a dude.
What dude that will be a discussion for another time. We still have “No Time to Die,” which arrives in theaters on April 7.
