Future ‘James Bond’ Movie Could Star Daniel Craig, Despite His 007 Being Killed off in ‘No Time to Die’

The James Bond franchise is preparing for one of the biggest transitions in its history.

Amazon MGM Studios is moving forward with a brand-new 007 film from director Denis Villeneuve and writer Steven Knight, with a new actor set to take over as the iconic British spy. While the search for the next Bond is now officially underway, the upcoming film is expected to serve as a fresh start for the long-running franchise.

But, even as Bond prepares to enter a new era, one question continues to linger: could Daniel Craig ever return?

Related: Hollywood Eyes Popular Actress to Play Female James Bond

Craig's departure appeared definitive. After starring in Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and No Time to Die (2021), his version of 007 became the first in franchise history to be killed on screen.

The ending seemed designed to remove any possibility of a comeback. Bond is struck by a barrage of missiles, while later scenes seemingly confirm his death. For many fans, it represented the clearest ending any Bond actor has ever received.

However, James Bond history suggests that departures are not always permanent.

Sean Connery famously stepped away from the role after You Only Live Twice (1967), only for George Lazenby to take over in On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969). Yet Connery returned for Diamonds Are Forever (1971), before then handing it over to Roger Moore, only to later return once again, this time for his final film, Never Say Never Again (1983).

This proves that Bond actors aren't always done when they leave the franchise behind. As such, Craig could eventually return, despite the fate of his character in No Time to Die.

Meanwhile, Bond has already been reinvented elsewhere. IO Interactive's new video game 007 First Light introduces a younger version of the spy played by Patrick Gibson, offering audiences an entirely new interpretation of the character.

For now, Craig's Bond remains dead within the continuity established by No Time to Die. But if franchise history has proven anything, it's that James Bond actors have a habit of returning when audiences least expect it.

Would you like to see Daniel Craig return as James Bond in a future film? Let us know in the comments below!