Daniel Craigis looking back on his 15-year career asJames Bond, admitting he never saw himself playing the iconic spy.
The actor, 53, opened up about his experience as 007 in an interview withThe New York Timesahead of the release of his latest and final Bond film,No Time to Die.
Reflecting on his audition for Bond, Craig told theTimeshe “assumed he’d been invited to audition as cannon fodder, to make it easier to choose someone else for the part.” He had been brought in to audition following the exit ofPierce Brosnan, who had played Bond in four films from 1995-2002.
Craig explained, “I was just amongst the mix — someone to dismiss,” before adding that he thought he’d be cast as a villain, saying, “Here you go, have a baddie.”
Yet, the actor went on to star as Bond in five films, starting withCasino Royale(2006) and includingQuantum of Solace(2008),Skyfall(2012) andSpectre(2015). His final film in the franchise,No Time to Die, premieres in theaters on Oct. 8.
Nicola Dove
Craig told theTimeshe aimed for consistency throughout his Bond films, admitting he may be remembered “as the Grumpy Bond,” but adding, “That’s just my Bond and I have to face up to it, that has been my Bond. But I’m quite satisfied with that.”
As for who will step into Bond’s shoes next, Craig has offered his own take, leaving the possibilities open butshutting downthe idea of a female Bond, explaining toRadio Times, “There should simply be better parts for women and actors of color.”
Daniel Craig.Tristan Fewings/Getty
He added, “Why should a woman play James Bond when there should be a part just as good as James Bond, but for a woman?”
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No matter who takes on the role next, Craig has simple words ofadvice, which he revealed onThe Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallonlast year: “Don’t f— it up,” he joked, before offering a more serious answer.
“It’s a beautiful, amazing thing. Leave it better than when you found it,” Craig said.
No Time to Dieis in theaters on Oct. 8.
source: people.com
