Daniel Craig Finds Creative Freedom After James Bond Exit, Calls Role “Exhausting”

Daniel Craig says he is enjoying his career more than ever. The actor left the iconic James Bond role four years ago. He is now taking on diverse and interesting projects.

The 57-year-old starred as 007 for fifteen years across five films. His final Bond film, No Time To Die, was released in 2021. Craig has now revealed he feels a new sense of creative freedom.

Craig Embraces New Roles Without Hesitation Post-007

Craig told Radio Times he is no longer wary of certain roles. He said the “juxtaposition” between Bond and other parts used to feel awkward. That self-consciousness has now completely faded.

He is working harder than ever before. Yet, he is also enjoying the work more. He gets to explore “really interesting, different stuff” outside the spy franchise.

Reflecting on the Physically and Emotionally Demanding Bond Years

The actor has been open about the toll the role took. Last year, he described feeling “empty” and “exhausted” after Bond films. He said the work left him emotionally drained for months.

According to Craig, the massive paychecks came with a cost. He felt life took a backseat to work during that period. This left him feeling strung out and in need of long recovery periods.

Daniel Craig’s journey beyond James Bond shows a veteran actor reclaiming his creative passion. His honest reflection highlights the immense pressure of a global franchise. He is now clearly thriving in this new chapter of his career.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Q1: When did Daniel Craig stop playing James Bond?

Daniel Craig’s final James Bond film was *No Time to Die*, released in 2021. He portrayed the character for 15 years before stepping away from the role.

Q2: How many James Bond movies did Daniel Craig make?

He starred in five James Bond films. These were *Casino Royale*, *Quantum of Solace*, *Skyfall*, *Spectre*, and *No Time to Die*.

Q3: What did Daniel Craig say about being Bond?

He called the experience “exhausting.” Craig said each film left him emotionally drained, requiring up to six months to recover fully from the intense process.

Q4: Is Daniel Craig still acting after Bond?

Yes, he is very active. Craig states he is working harder than ever but enjoying it more. He is now selectively choosing diverse and challenging roles.

Q5: Why did James Bond have to die in the last film?

Craig and the producers agreed on a definitive ending for his version of the character. This narrative choice provided a clear conclusion to his 15-year story arc.