There are long-running movie series, and then there's the James Bond franchise. 007's battles as an MI6 agent have enthralled moviegoers for decades, with plenty of actors taking on the mantle of Bond across the property's long tenure in theaters. Daniel Craig is the current reigning James, but will hang up the tux for good following the 25th movie, No Time To Die. Fleabag and Killing Eve's Phoebe Waller-Bridge helped out with No Time To Die's script, and a new rumor indicates the studio may already be trying to bring her back for the 26th flick.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge has become a household name over the past few years, creating two Emmy-winning shows, and also playing L3-37 in Solo: A Star Wars Story. Fans are eager to see how she utilizes her quick wit and signature dialogue within the James Bond franchise. No Time To Die marks her debut in the beloved property, but a new report indicates she may already have been approached about returning.
This (unconfirmed) news come to us from Movie Web, and comes just after No Time To Die has wrapped its principal photography. While Eon Productions no doubt has its hands full in bringing that highly anticipated blockbuster to life, it doesn't seem out question that Barbara Broccoli and company might already be looking to the future. And finding an actor to replace Daniel Craig might be easier if Bond 26's writer and tone is established.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge is on a serious roll as of late, recently having a great night at the Primetime Emmy Awards. Fleabag received a whopping eleven nominations, winning six. Waller-Bridge won the coveted Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy for her performance as the show's protagonist. What's more, she had another contender in Drama with Killing Eve, which got 5 noms and a Lead Actress win for Jodie Comer.
Given the universal acclaim Phoebe Waller-Bridge has received as a writer, it makes sense that the Bond franchise may be looking at her for a future installment. And if this report is to be believes, it seems Eon was pleased with how Waller-Bridge contributed to No Time to Die. The upcoming 25th's movie is currently a mystery, but the pressure is on to deliver a satisfying swan song for Daniel Craig's incarnation of the character.
Related: Phoebe Waller-Bridge Says Bond 25 Will ‘Treat Women Properly’
Daniel Craig has had a strong run as James Bond, bringing a hulking physicality to the character. Casino Royale was an outstanding and gritty debut for Craig, while Skyfall was an emotional sendoff to Judi Dench's M. Now the franchise will have to send off another actor, this time the lead. The final outing hasn't always been the best for past Bond actors, so the pressure is on to deliver with No Time to Die. Luckily, the script has been touched by Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
All will be revealed when Cary Joji Fukunaga's No Time to Die hits theaters on April 8th, 2020. In the meantime, check out our 2019 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
