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STALEMATE

James Bond film in crisis as producers ‘panic’ after star of the show Daniel Craig goes ‘off grid’

Producers are said to be worrying about the 2018 film as they don’t have their leading man Daniel Craig confirmed for the role

JAMES Bond bosses are said to be ‘panicking’ over the proposed 2018 film as they’ve not yet got a lead actor.

Producers are hoping Daniel Craig will return to the role but he’s yet to confirm whether he wants to take part.

 Bond bosses are said to be at a 'stalemate' with their leading man Daniel Craig
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Bond bosses are said to be at a 'stalemate' with their leading man Daniel CraigCredit: PA:Press Association

MGM executives are reportedly at a “stalemate” with the 48-year-old star – with little contact between the camps.

An insider told The Mirror: “Daniel and MGM are currently at a stalemate with him having not spoken to them about Bond.

“They have offered a bigger wage deal, and asked about his filming availability to his reps in 2017, but as yet they have not spoken to Daniel.

“They want Bond 25 out in October 2018, but currently they have no Bond, film dates or knowledge of when that will change.

 MGM execs still have their hearts set on Daniel Craig
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MGM execs still have their hearts set on Daniel CraigCredit: Columbia Pictures

“Daniel’s commitment is also a key part of whether Sony Pictures will come in to co-finance the film. So much is hanging in the air – and no-one knows.”

The actor is working with Barbara Broccoli – executive director of the Bond films – on Broadway in New York where he is starring in Othello.

Previously, Daniel appeared to want to distance himself from the role, controversially saying he’d rather slash his wrists than take on the part.

However it seemed he had a change of heart earlier this year, saying he had “the best job in the world.”

He added: I’ll keep doing it as long as I still get a kick out of it.”

“If I were to stop doing it, I would miss it terribly.”

In September, executive producer Callum McDougall said the actor was “absolutely the first choice” of producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.

He told Radio 4’s Today programme: “I know they’re hoping for him to come back.”


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