Actor Ben Whishaw, who portrayed the technology expert Q in the James Bond films Skyfall, Spectre, and No Time to Die, does not anticipate returning for the next installment. In a recent interview, Whishaw expressed his belief that the role of Q, along with the other main characters, will be recast. 'I don't think I'm going to be in the next one,' he told the BBC, as reported by Variety. 'I think they're going to start all over again, and with a new cast, a completely new cast. I think that's my hunch, but I don't know. I have no idea.'
Whishaw acknowledged that a reboot with new actors might revitalize the 007 series, but he would return if the producers requested his involvement. 'I think it might need a new lease of life and a whole new group of people,' he said. 'But if they asked me, I would do it, of course.'
Details about the upcoming 26th James Bond film remain scarce. However, it is confirmed that Daniel Craig, who starred as the British super-spy in five Bond films, will not be returning, with the role transitioning to a new actor. Recent rumors suggest Aaron Taylor-Johnson is the leading candidate, with some speculating that his name was leaked to gauge public reaction.
In any case, more information is expected to emerge as producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson begin assembling the film. Described as a 'reinvention' of both the series and the character, Whishaw's prediction that the producers will recast the major roles seems plausible.
Before Whishaw took on the role of Q, it was played by Desmond Llewelyn from 1963 to 1999, followed by John Cleese. Whishaw's next project will be Paddington in Peru.
In addition to the new Bond movie, Hitman developer IO is creating a James Bond video game that will feature an original story set within the Bond universe.
