Daniel Craig Opens up About the Performer He Finds Truly Magical
Daniel Craig has spent his career proving that he is a versatile performer capable of far more than just high-octane espionage. While his transition from the BBC’s Our Friends in the North to global superstardom as James Bond is well-documented,
His work in films like Layer Cake and Knives Out has cemented his reputation as a true actor’s actor. Throughout his journey, he has remained deeply appreciative of the craft, often pointing to his peers as the source of his inspiration.
One such peer is the late Michael Gambon, with whom Craig worked on the 2004 crime thriller Layer Cake. During the film’s promotion, Craig spoke with great reverence about the legendary actor, who played the formidable crime lord Eddie Temple. Craig told Groucho Reviews that Michael is from a generation of actors who carried a specific kind of prestige, having worked alongside greats like Laurence Olivier.
Despite Gambon’s classical roots and extensive stage history, Craig found his approach to be incredibly fresh and relevant. He described him as being as modern an actor as you would ever like to meet, possessing a specific emotional weight that could be overwhelming to witness. Craig noted that Gambon had a depth of raw emotion, which is shattering to watch sometimes, even in a gritty genre film like Layer Cake.
According to Craig, one of the most remarkable aspects of working with Gambon was his spontaneity on set. He revealed that Gambon actually improvised most of his lines in Layer Cake, which added a layer of unpredictability and magic to their scenes together. Craig observed that for an actor of Gambon’s caliber, the work never felt like a chore, explaining that it’s playtime for him, and it’s magical to watch.
While the two shared the screen in the cinema, Craig maintained that Gambon’s true home was the theater. He encouraged audiences to see him live, suggesting that it was impossible to watch him on stage when he’s on form and not fall emotionally in love with him. For Craig, Gambon wasn’t just a talented performer but a singular presence, concluding that he’s just one of those human beings who leave a lasting mark on everyone they meet.
As of early 2026, Craig has successfully moved into a new era of his career following his departure from the 007 franchise. He recently received significant awards buzz for his starring role in Luca Guadagnino’s Queer, where he played William Lee, a performance that earned him nominations at the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Fans have also just seen him reprise his role as the eccentric detective Benoit Blanc in the third Knives Out installment, Wake Up Dead Man, which premiered on Netflix in late 2025.
Looking ahead, Craig is set to venture into the world of high fantasy with a significant role in Greta Gerwig’s upcoming adaptation of Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew. The film, which also stars Emma Mackey and Carey Mulligan, recently wrapped production and is scheduled for a major theatrical and Netflix release in November 2026.
What do you think about Daniel Craig’s recent move toward more experimental and character-driven roles since hanging up the tuxedo? Share your thoughts in the comments.