Daniel Craig’s Refusal To Reprise ‘James Bond’ Role Made Studio Honchos Want Him More

For months, fans have been speculating on who would be the next James Bond especially after Daniel Craig stated that he would rather “slash his wrists” than reprise his renowned role. However, it appears that his coyness only made the producers want him more.

Reports have emerged that despite the list of possible successors, the studio honchos still want Daniel. According to the Hollywood Reporter, executive producer Callum McDougall is firm that Daniel remains the “first choice” of the franchise’s chief producers.

Daniel has yet to make the decision. Some believe that the stress that comes with filming is the reason why he does not want to return. Cinemablend reports that MGM even offered him a talent fee twice bigger than his previous paycheck. Unfortunately, the 007 actor, who has given life to the role since 2005, is still reluctant despite the alleged $150 million-offer. An insider told Radar that MGM is “desperate” to win him back.

“The studio is desperate to secure the actor’s services while they phase in a younger long-term successor. Everyone knows how much executives adore him, and the idea of losing him at such a crucial time in the franchise isn’t an option as far as all the studio honchos are concerned.”

Producers reportedly believe that Daniel is still the best actor who can give the films a “seamless, safe transition.” The bosses are “prepared to pay a king’s ransom to make it happen.” No one from the film has stepped in to confirm the reports. In the meantime, fans are still guessing on who could replace Daniel. Some of the frontrunners that are continuously mentioned in various headlines include Tom Hughes, Damien Lewis, Idris Elba, Jamie Bell, Chris Hemsworth, and Tom Hiddleston.

Hiddleston previously told the Sunday Times that as a fan, it would be great to jump into the opportunity of being Bond.

“I simply love the theme tune, the tropes and the mythology. I love the whole thing. If it ever came knocking, it would be an extraordinary opportunity. And I’m very aware of the physicality of the job. I would not take it lightly.”

Marvel’s “Loki” was first associated with the role when he appeared in The Night Manager as an MI5 operative clad in a tuxedo. This appears to give some Bond fans the idea that Hiddleston would fit the bill.

Lily Cole, on the other hand, thinks it’s about time to have a female Bond. She thinks that there are many female actresses with strong personalities who would make a great secret agent. Her first choice is Cate Blanchett.

Indian actress Priyanka Chopra echoed Cole’s sentiments. The former Miss World even declared her willingness to take on the role if there’s a chance. “It would be a big win for women,” she told Refinery 29. She brought up the long-standing theory that “James Bond” might be a mere codename which can give a female the opportunity to be behind the name. Although fans are accustomed to having a male Bond as portrayed in the novels, the writers can make a huge leap for the sake of artistic exploration.

Regardless of the guesses, Sam Mendes, who directed box-office successes Skyfall and Spectre, reminded everyone that the next Bond wouldn’t be based on who’s the most popular choice. He told the Telegraph that whoever gets the role will be decided by the bosses.

“It’s not a democracy. It’s not The X Factor, it’s not the EU referendum, it’s not a public vote. [Producer] Barbara Broccoli chooses who’s going to be the next Bond. End of story.”

Who do you think is the most deserving for the iconic role?

[Featured Image by Adam Berry/Getty Images for Sony Pictures]