A Fond & Bittersweet Farewell to Daniel Craig As He Leaves 007 Behind

It's no secret that Daniel Craig is my favorite Bond. So the fact that No Time To Die is his fifth and final Bond film is bittersweet for me. I know how physically demanding the role of James Bond 007 has gotten and I know that playing the role has not all been rainbows and sunshine for Daniel. In his 16 years of playing Bond, Daniel had his two front teeth knocked out, sliced the tip of a finger, broke his shoulder, both knees, and sprained his ankle. And I know that in the months leading up to the film's release, Daniel has gotten quite emotional about leaving the role that has been his life's work for 15 years. Daniel gave an impromptu farewell speech on the last day of filming on No Time To Die and got pretty choked up about leaving the role behind at the end of his speech. At the same time, Daniel has had enough of playing Bond. I'm sad that he's leaving the 007 role behind, but I understand that he's had enough and I am grateful that he gave us 5 wonderful films of the standard exciting and entertaining Bond fare.

Daniel brought something new to the Bond role. I love the Craig 007 movies because he pursues healthier, long-lasting relationships with women and fights to overcome his demons. When Daniel's 007 seduces women into sleeping with him and then leaves them after one night of passion, it is portrayed negatively. Daniel's Bond is more human than the other Bonds. I love his 007 because he is both vulnerable and tough.

While Daniel is leaving the role & his James Bond is dead, I will not say farewell to his Bond because I have Skyfall, and SPECTRE (and I will definitely buy No Time To Die) and I will definitely be watching them over and over again from time to time. Daniel has had a great run as Bond and I already miss Daniel as the incumbent 007. However, with sadness, gratitude, and satisfaction, I bid Daniel Craig a bittersweet and fond farewell as he steps down as "Bond, James Bond," and thank him for 16 wonderful years of James Bond 007 and 5 equally wonderful 007 flicks.