News Digest

Bond is back - but can we keep him? Producers keen to lift Spectre of Craig quitting

The producers of the new James Bond movie have vowed to keep Daniel Craig in the lead role as the world premiere was held in London. Spectre is 47-year-old Craig’s fourth outing as the British secret agent and he has not yet said whether he will do a fifth film. But earlier this month, he gave the clearest indication yet that he will not do another 007 movie, saying he would rather “slash my wrists”. However, the film is expected to top the UK box office and the producers said last night they were “not going to let him go”.

I was a Bond fan when I was a teenager. I’ve always loved the films and the Bond books so I feel a childish delight to be in them.

Ralph Fiennes

Speaking at the screening at the Royal Albert Hall, Michael G Wilson said “he’s our man” while Barbara Broccoli said: “We’re going to figure it out. We’re not going to let him go.” Craig was the first star to arrive, and told red carpet host Rick Edwards: “It’s just fantastic to see everybody out tonight. I’m not overwhelmed, I’m very excited and I can’t wait for people to see the movie." He added that he "hated” watching himself on screen, but said “I love playing James Bond.”

I want Daniel to always be Bond and I want Sam (Mendes) to always direct as well.

Naomie Harris, who plays Miss Moneypenny