UPDATE: Rian Johnson has made it unequivocally clear that Daniel Craig will remain the face of Benoit Blanc, dispelling any speculation about recasting the iconic character in future installments of the Knives Out franchise. In a recent interview with IndieWire, Johnson emphasized that Craig’s portrayal of Blanc is irreplaceable, likening the character more to Indiana Jones than to James Bond.
Johnson stated, “He’s Indy. He’s Daniel doing it,” reinforcing that their partnership is at the heart of the films. The director elaborated, “For me, personally, these movies are working with Daniel. It’s a partnership.” This sentiment highlights the duo’s collaborative spirit as they work on the next chapter of the series, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.
The third film in the franchise had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025, and is set to hit select theaters across the U.S. on November 26, 2025, followed by a Netflix release on December 12, 2025.
Johnson’s commitment to Craig as Benoit Blanc is not just a creative decision; it’s a deeply personal one. He added, “The instant either one of us feels even slightly like not doing it, we’ll stop doing it.” This reveals a profound connection between the director and actor, emphasizing their dedication to producing quality content.
The duo’s collaboration is further underscored by Johnson’s acknowledgment of Craig’s significant involvement in character development. The filmmaker noted that they have already begun “formulating” ideas for the next entry in the series, demonstrating their forward-thinking approach.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Wake Up Dead Man, the assurances from Johnson ensure that Craig will continue to bring his unique flair to the role of Blanc, creating a lasting legacy for the character.
Stay tuned as we follow the unfolding developments in the Knives Out franchise, including more insights from Johnson and Craig’s creative partnership. This news is sure to resonate with fans who have been following the series since its inception.