Steven Knight completes first draft of new 'James Bond' script
What's the story
The much-anticipated James Bond film has taken a significant step forward with the completion of its first draft, as confirmed by screenwriter Steven Knight. Speaking on the UK radio show Greatest Hits Radio, he cryptically nodded in response to a question about whether he had finished the script. The news comes amid speculation about who will succeed Daniel Craig as 007.
Enthusiasm
Knight is 'absolutely loving' the Bond project
Knight, known for Peaky Blinders and House of Guinness, said he was "absolutely loving" the Bond project.
He described it as a "duty to King and country" and added that he believed the final product would be amazing.
"I'm absolutely loving doing it. It's an honor to be asked. And believe it's going to be so good."
Casting speculation
Script written with specific actor in mind?
Knight's recent comments also suggested that he might know who has been cast as the new James Bond.
When asked on BBC Radio 4's Today if he wrote the script with a specific actor in mind or worked from his understanding of the character, he replied, "It's a bit of both."
"It does make life a little bit easier if you know who that person is, but also you have to write the character, not the actor."
Casting rumors
Gary Oldman hints at Jack Lowden being next Bond
Adding fuel to the casting speculation, Gary Oldman recently hinted that a decision had already been made.
Speaking on Canada's The Morning Show, he said he was hoping his Slow Horses co-star Jack Lowden would be the one getting the call.
"It's been rumored that [Lowden] is on the shortlist, so my fingers are crossed for Jack."
The film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve and produced by Amazon MGM Studios.