Judi Dench Reveals Daniel Craig Proposed Killing M in New Memoir
Dame Judi Dench has confirmed in her new memoir, 'Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?', that Daniel Craig suggested killing her character, M, in the 2012 film 'Skyfall.' The 91-year-old actress recounts being informed of the plot at the Wolseley restaurant by producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, alongside director Sam Mendes. Dench notes she had long requested more action roles, joking that she was finally 'let out from behind my desk' only to be shot. She denies crying over her exit, highlighting that her eight-film run exceeded Roger Moore's tenure. The book also covers her dislike of trigger warnings, Disney films, and the label 'national treasure.'
Key points
- Judi Dench confirms Daniel Craig proposed killing M in 'Skyfall'.
- Dench was informed of her exit at the Wolseley restaurant by producers and director Sam Mendes.
- She denies crying over her departure, noting her eight-film run exceeded Roger Moore's tenure.
- The memoir also details her views on trigger warnings, Disney films, and the 'national treasure' label.
- Dench states her worsening age-related macular degeneration has ended her acting career.
Background
Dench's exit from the Bond franchise was previously reported in October 2026, where she confirmed her vision loss ended her acting career. Earlier coverage also noted her rejection of the 'national treasure' label and her desire to die in a theater dressing room. This new memoir provides further insight into her career and personal views.
How outlets are covering it
The Independent and Variety focus on Dench's Bond experiences, highlighting her candid remarks about Craig's suggestion to kill M and her denial of crying. Yahoo and A.V. Club expand on her broader views, including her dislike of trigger warnings, Disney films, and the 'national treasure' label. All sources agree on the core facts regarding her Bond exit and memoir release, but differ in emphasis on her personal opinions and career limitations due to macular degeneration.
Why it matters
Dench's memoir offers a rare, candid look at her career and personal views, providing insight into the Bond franchise's history and her legacy. Her statements on trigger warnings and Disney films reflect broader cultural debates, while her confirmation of Craig's role in her exit adds a new dimension to the Bond narrative. Her vision loss also marks a significant moment for the entertainment industry, highlighting the impact of age-related conditions on veteran actors.
What to watch
The full release of 'Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?' on November 3, 2026, will provide further details on Dench's career and personal life. The announcement of a new James Bond film may also prompt further discussions about the franchise's future and the roles of key characters like M.
- Dame Judi Dench says it was Daniel Craig’s idea to have her killed off from Bond films The Independent
- Judi Dench Tells All About Bond: It Was Daniel Craig’s Idea to ‘Have Me Killed’ Variety
- 9 times Judi Dench made us clutch our pearls reading her memoir Entertainment Weekly
- Judi Dench says Disney 'ruined cinema' for her and other things the acclaimed actress hates Yahoo
- Judi Dench says it was Daniel Craig's idea to off M A.V. Club
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Read on The Independent