Danny Boyle has quit as director of the next James Bond film “due to creative differences”, the production team has announced.
A tweet on the official James Bond account said: “Michael G. Wilson, Barbara Broccoli and Daniel Craig today announced that due to creative differences Danny Boyle has decided to no longer direct Bond 25.”
The film – which would have been the second collaboration between Daniel Craig and the Oscar-winning ‘Trainspotting’ director – had been planned for release in November next year.
The pair previously worked together on a short film for the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics, which featured 007 in a brief cameo alongside the Queen.
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Danny Boyle
Axel Schmidt / Reuters
It will be Craig’s fifth appearance as Bond, and would have been Boyle’s first time helming a 007 movie.
Addressing these quotes during a ‘Late Show’ interview in August last year, Craig admitted he “needed a break” before he committed himself to the role again, adding: “There’s no point in making excuses about it. It was two days after I finished shooting the last movie.
“Instead of saying something with style and grace, I gave a really stupid answer.”
A replacement for the filmmaker has yet to be announced. Prior to his hiring, David Mackenzie, Denis Villeneuve and Yann Demange were reportedly being considered for the job.
The Next James Bond Is One Of These...
Damian Lewis(01 of14)
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The first red-headed James Bond?
Idris Elba(02 of14)
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So many people have asked him about it, Idris will no longer discuss the subject. But while Pierce Brosnan remarked Bond boss Barbara Broccoli wouldn't be happy with a Black Bond, she told HuffPostUK, "I don't know what Pierce is talking about."
Tom Hardy(03 of14)
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Arguably too rugged for the corridors of Westminster where James Bond has to defend his actions, but very, very popular.
Chiwetel Ejiofor(04 of14)
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Another actor who's been asked so many times, now he just smiles when asked.
Tom Hiddleston(05 of14)
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If pouting were all that is required, Tom Hiddleston would go straight to Vauxhall Bridge.
Clive Owen(06 of14)
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Has proved he has the required steeliness in any number of big screen roles, but success Stateside might make him no longer willing to commit.
Douglas Booth(07 of14)
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No gun or martial arts skills required, he can just look at them, and wait for submission.
John Boyega(08 of14)
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What the 'Star Wars' star may lack in stature, he more than makes up for in enthusiasm and appeal. Although the Bond villains might just want to cuddle him.
Taron Egerton(09 of14)
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Proved his action hero chops in 'Kingsman: Secret Service' and signing him now would mean Barbara Broccoli and co wouldn't have to worry again for at least a decade.
Michael Fassbender(10 of14)
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Like Pierce Brosnan, Irish charm could help the 'Steve Jobs' star int the role.
Sam Claflin(11 of14)
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The 'Hunger Games' star represents the best of British.
Tom Hughes(12 of14)
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Who, you ask? Set to play Prince Albert against Jenna Coleman in the forthcoming 'Victoria' TV series, Tom has already proven himself a master of espionage in 'The Game' and 'Page Eight', both on TV. When not if he gets the call, don't say we didn't give you the heads up...
Aidan Turner(13 of14)
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Aidan has made a legion of fans with his role of Ross Poldark, but it was his surprising turn in 'And Then There Were None' that really proved he could be enigmatic and dashing. (credit:PA)
Jeremy Clarkson(14 of14)
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... or alternatively, don't say we didn't warn you.