UPDATE: In a groundbreaking announcement, director Rian Johnson has confirmed that Daniel Craig will not be recast as Benoit Blanc in future installments of the Knives Out franchise. This definitive statement comes amidst rising speculation about the future of the character, particularly as the third film, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, approaches its release.
During a recent interview with IndieWire, Johnson emphatically stated, “He’s Indy. He’s Daniel doing it.” This clarification underscores Johnson’s commitment to Craig, likening Blanc to iconic characters like Indiana Jones rather than James Bond, who has seen multiple actors take on the role.
The director elaborated on their collaborative relationship, stating, “For me, personally, these movies are working with Daniel. It’s a partnership.” Johnson highlighted the mutual respect and pressure they place on themselves to deliver quality films, saying, “If Daniel is happy, I’m happy.” This partnership is pivotal to the film series’ success.
As excitement builds for the upcoming film, which had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025, Johnson revealed that he and Craig are already in the process of “formulating” the next entry in the beloved franchise. This forward-thinking approach signals their dedication to evolving the character and storyline.
Wake Up Dead Man is poised for a theatrical release in select US theaters on November 26, 2025, followed by its premiere on Netflix on December 12, 2025. Fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the continuation of the saga, with Craig’s unique portrayal of Blanc at its heart.
This confirmation from Johnson not only reassures fans but also emphasizes the importance of unique storytelling and character development in the film industry. As the Knives Out franchise continues to thrive, the partnership between Johnson and Craig remains a focal point for future projects.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the latest developments in the Knives Out series and the impact of this iconic partnership on cinema.
