A press release from the producers of the James Bond films have confirmed that Daniel Craig who stars as the hero of Casino Royale will be repeated in more Bond roles.

Casino Royale is slated to hit the screens by the end of 2006 and Craig is already being penciled in to play the lead in the next film which releases in the autumn of 2008. Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said: “As we wrap production on Casino Royale, we couldn’t be more excited about the direction the franchise is heading with Daniel.” They praised his “darker and edgier 007”. Craig, 44, bonded with the makers after Pierce Brosnan was asked to go home following demands of a price hike. The 2006 release will be the 21 st Bond film.

Notting Hill director Roger Michell is reportedly in talks to direct the 2008 Bond movie.