James Bond producers confirm Daniel Craig's replacement has not been found

Daniel Craig in No Time to Die
(Image credit: Universal)

The rumour mill practically flew off its axis last month with unverified reports that Tom Hardy would be suiting up as the next James Bond. However, Total Film has received word that no such casting has been made – in fact, the producers behind the world's most famous spy series are waiting for the dust to settle on No Time to Die until they make their decision.

Producer Barbara Broccoli reveals Total Film in the new issue: “I always say: you can only be in love with one person at a time. Once the film’s come out, then some time will pass, and then we’ll have to get on to the business of the future. But for now, we just cannot think about anything beyond Daniel.”

With Bond experiencing a particularly fruitful period under Broccoli and fellow producer Michael G. Wilson’s stewardship of the Craig era, the temptation may be to repeat the formula. But don’t expect a Craig copycat to follow. “It will have to be reimagined, in the way each actor has reimagined the role,” Broccoli assures. “That’s what is so exciting and fun about this franchise; the character evolves. Eventually, when we have to think about it, we’ll find the right person.”

As for that “right person”, Broccoli and Wilson are more than prepared to break with 60 years of tradition. “He doesn’t need to be a white man. Not as far as I’m concerned,” asserts Broccoli, who hasn’t changed her stance on casting a woman as Bond, despite speculation that Lashana Lynch’s Nomi will inherit Bond’s 007 designation in No Time To Die. “We should create roles for women, not just turn a man into a woman.”

No Time To Die

(Image credit: Universal)

Inside the new issue of Total Film, you’ll find everything you need to know about No Time to Die from director Cary Joji Fukunaga and the key production talent who make the stunts, suits, song, vehicles, and more come to life.

But it’s not all about No Time to Die. The new issue also features an in-depth look at the Eon archives, to delve into the secrets of all of the previous Bonds. Plus, Total Film goes in-depth for the 25th anniversary of GoldenEye, the film that took a leap of faith and launched Pierce Brosnan’s tenure in the role.

For much more on James Bond, pick up a copy of the new issue of Total Film magazine when it hits shelves real and digital this Friday, October 16. No Time to Die is currently scheduled to open in cinemas on April 2, 2021.

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(Image credit: Total Film)

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Jack Shepherd
Freelance Journalist

Jack Shepherd is the former Senior Entertainment Editor of GamesRadar. Jack used to work at The Independent as a general culture writer before specializing in TV and film for the likes of GR+, Total Film, SFX, and others. You can now find Jack working as a freelance journalist and editor.