Daniel Craig praises two Bond legends ‘that had major influence on my career’

It’s been almost two years since Daniel Craig bowed out as James Bond in No Time To Die.

Since then, the Hollywood star has rarely spoken publicly in reflection on his record 15 years as 007, until now.

The 55-year-old appeared via video message at the London Action Festival during the handing out of the Moving Target Award for outstanding contributions to action cinema.

The recipients were two Bond franchise legends who have worked closely with Craig during his tenure as 007.

Lavishing them with praise, he described them both as “two people who have had a major influence on my career”.

The pair in question are Casino Royale director Martin Campbell and Bond Special Effects Supervisor Chris Corbould.

On the filmmaker behind his 007 debut, Craig said: “It gave me incredible security knowing you were steering the ship [on Casino Royale]. I have so much to thank you for. I’m incredibly proud of the film we made together.”

On Corbould, Craig added: “I don’t know what to say. You’ve blown me up, you’ve set me on fire – but what has been so incredible in working with you is to have had the privilege of getting inside your imagination. Those have been some of the most joyous experiences on a film set that I have had in my fairly long career.”

The Bond producers themselves also send a video message to pay tribute to Campbell and Corbould.

Michael G Wilson said: “Hey Chris and Martin. Sorry we can’t be there with you this evening.”

And Barbara Broccoli added: “Congratulations on your well-deserved honour and we really appreciate all the work you’ve done for the Bond Films over the years. You’re an important part of the Bond family.”