Ever since EON Productions and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer announced last July that they were gearing up to shoot the 25th film in the James Bond film franchise, talk has revolved around whether or not the current actor, Daniel Craig, is up for another role reprisal (his fifth). It should be recalled that shortly after the 2015 release of “Spectre” the English actor shocked an interviewer with the wording of his refusal to play Bond yet again in the future.

That pretty much put his return in limbo despite the announcement of “Bond 25.” However, confirmation finally comes straight out of the horse’s mouth when Craig announced on late-night television that yes, he will still be James Bond.

Pointed question

On the August 15 broadcast of “Late Show” on CBS, Daniel Craig was a guest of host Stephen Colbert, who went and asked him about his being confirmed to reprise James Bond for the 25th movie by MGM and EON Productions. This had been reported back in July by sources such as The New York Times among many others, but the actor had remained silent all throughout that time.

But there would be no beating around the bush for Craig when Colbert asked him if he will or will not.

"We could use some good news here,” began the “Late Show” host. “Daniel Craig, will you return as James Bond?" Following a pause, the actor said one word: “Yes.” And with that, the studio audience gave a loud applause and cheer while Colbert shook Craig’s hand. Further elaboration revealed that the four-time Bond portrayer had already known about it for two months – well before the July announcement by EON and MGM even. His reticence throughout that time was brought on by his desire to take a break.

Inelegant answer

Speaking of taking a break, that might actually be the reason as Daniel Craig tells Stephen Colbert, for his original pronouncement two years ago that he would sooner “cut his wrists” rather than portray James Bond all over again.

"There's no point in making excuses about it,” Craig said. “It was two days after I finished shooting the last movie." He had hoped to come up with a response to the interview question that was stylish and graceful. Fatigue from playing his part may have ended up twisting his “not so soon” into a bitter reply that he describes in hindsight as “stupid.”

Daniel Craig is the sixth official Bond actor with the MGM-EON film production. His debut was in “Casino Royale” back in 2006, followed by “Quantum of Solace,” “Skyfall” and “Spectre.” His fifth outing as Agent 007, known by its working title “Bond 25,” is expected to premiere in 2019.