Daniel Craig Reveals What the “Knives Out ”Movies Mean to Him — and If the Third Is His Last (Exclusive)

Daniel Craig Reflects on the ‘Extraordinary’ ‘Knives Out’ Movies

Renowned actor Daniel Craig recently shared his thoughts exclusively with PEOPLE at the Toronto International Film Festival premiere of ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ on September 6. The event marked the unveiling of the third installment in the beloved murder mystery series created by writer-director Rian Johnson.

During the premiere, Craig, known for his role as Detective Benoit Blanc, expressed his gratitude for being a part of the ‘Knives Out’ franchise. He described the opportunity to portray such a complex character as a stroke of luck and highlighted the uniqueness of playing Blanc compared to his iconic role as James Bond. The English star emphasised his appreciation for the series, comprising ‘Knives Out’ (2019) and ‘Glass Onion’ (2022), and hinted at the possibility of future projects with the character.

When asked about the potential of reprising his role as Benoit Blanc in future films, Craig playfully responded, “Who told you that?” indicating that there might be more to come. While Johnson has not yet penned any sequels beyond ‘Wake Up Dead Man,’ Craig expressed optimism about the prospect of continuing the series if the script meets his expectations.

Johnson, the mastermind behind the ‘Knives Out’ franchise, confirmed the title of the latest film in May, teasing audiences with a glimpse of Blanc’s “most dangerous case yet.” With a star-studded cast including Josh O’Connor, Cailee Spaeny, Glenn Close, and more, the premiere showcased the allure of Johnson’s intricate storytelling and Craig’s compelling performance.

Reflecting on his career trajectory, Craig concluded his tenure as James Bond in ‘No Time to Die’ (2021) and now finds himself exploring new avenues in the film industry. Reports suggest that he may join Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of C. S. Lewis’ ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ novels, hinting at a diverse range of roles in his future.

As fans eagerly anticipate the release of ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ in cinemas on November 26 and on Netflix on December 12, the success of the franchise underscores Craig’s versatility as an actor and his ability to captivate audiences with each project he undertakes. With accolades pouring in for his portrayal of Detective Benoit Blanc, Craig’s collaboration with Johnson continues to push the boundaries of the murder mystery genre.

The Toronto International Film Festival premiere provided a platform for Craig and Johnson to unveil their latest creation to an eager audience, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in the ‘Knives Out’ saga. As Craig navigates the transition from Bond to Blanc, his passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft shine through, cementing his status as one of the industry’s most versatile actors.

In a landscape brimming with sequels and reboots, ‘Knives Out’ stands out as a testament to originality and innovation. Craig’s involvement in the series not only showcases his range as an actor but also highlights the enduring appeal of a well-crafted narrative. As he continues to push boundaries and explore new horizons, audiences can expect to be enthralled by his future endeavours on screen.

The legacy of ‘Knives Out’ and Craig’s portrayal of Benoit Blanc will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on cinema enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying his position as a versatile talent with the ability to captivate audiences across genres. With the release of ‘Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery’ drawing near, fans can look forward to another cinematic masterpiece that combines suspense, intrigue, and Craig’s undeniable knack for captivating storytelling.