Judi Dench Reveals Daniel Craig Ordered M's Death in Skyfall 2026

Judi Dench has revealed that Daniel Craig was the one who suggested killing off her character, M, in the 2012 James Bond film Skyfall. The revelation comes from Dench's new memoir, Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?, and adds a new layer to the Craig era of the franchise.

According to Dench, she was informed of M's fate during a meeting at the Wolseley restaurant with producer Barbara Broccoli, co-producer Michael G. Wilson, and director Sam Mendes. Craig was not present, but Dench writes that she was later told it was his idea. "Apparently, it was Daniel's idea to have me killed," she writes.

Judi Dench's Reaction to M's Death

Dench dismisses reports that she cried when told of her character's demise. "Of course I didn't cry," she writes. "Why on earth would I cry after 20 glorious years and eight Bond films – which, by the way, is one more than Roger Moore, the longest-running 007 to date."

Her portrayal of M spanned seven films, from GoldenEye in 1995 to Skyfall in 2012. She remains one of the most beloved figures in the franchise's history.

Daniel Craig's Decision to Kill M

Craig's suggestion to kill M was a bold move that underscored his desire to bring a darker, more emotional depth to the series. In Skyfall, M's death serves as a pivotal moment, raising the stakes and humanizing Bond in a way rarely seen before.

This decision also highlighted Craig's influence behind the scenes. As the sixth actor to play Bond, he was known for his hands-on approach to shaping the character's arc, which culminated in his own character's death in No Time to Die.

The Legacy of the Craig Era

Daniel Craig's tenure as James Bond redefined the character for a new generation. From Casino Royale to No Time to Die, his films explored Bond's vulnerabilities and pushed the boundaries of the spy genre.

Dench's memoir provides a behind-the-scenes look at the creative decisions that shaped this era. It also reminds us that even beloved characters are not immune to the axe when storytelling demands it.

• Judi Dench played M in seven James Bond films over 17 years.
• Daniel Craig suggested killing off M in Skyfall, according to Dench's memoir.
• Dench did not cry when told of her character's fate, despite reports.
• M's death was a turning point in the Craig era, adding emotional depth.

What This Means for the Future of James Bond

As the franchise prepares to announce the next actor to play 007, this revelation adds to the ongoing conversation about the creative choices that define each Bond era. It also raises questions about how much influence the lead actor should have on the storylines.

Dench's memoir offers a rare glimpse into the decision-making process at the highest levels of the Bond franchise. It shows that even the most iconic characters can meet unexpected ends when the story calls for it.

Dench's memoir, Is It Too Late to Make a Run for It?, is available now. It offers fans a deeper understanding of the Bond franchise and the woman who brought M to life.

For those interested in more stories about Judi Dench, her memoir also covers her thoughts on other career moments. She recently called her experience filming Cats a "waste of goodwill and talent." You can read more about that in Judi Dench Calls Cats Film a Waste of Goodwill and Talent.

Dench's memoir has been widely reviewed, with many praising her candor. Our own Judi Dench Memoir Review: Is It Too Late to Make a Run explores the book's highs and lows.

She also recently shared stories with Ian McKellen in a televised conversation. That delightful exchange is captured in Judi Dench and Ian McKellen Share Stories and Mischief in Tea.

Fans can still submit questions to the actress through our Judi Dench: Ask the Iconic Actress Your Questions Today page.

Dench has also been vocal about supporting the cast of The Archers in their bid to keep the show in Birmingham. Read about her stance in Judi Dench Backs The Archers Cast to Keep Show in Birmingham.

For a review of her recent TV special with Ian McKellen, see Tea With Judi Dench and Ian McKellen Review: A Heartfelt Tribute.

Dench has also spoken about how sight loss has affected her career. That story is covered in Judi Dench Says Sight Loss Ends Her Acting Career at 91.