Daniel Craig Benoit Blanc fans can rest assured that Craig will continue to star as the eccentric detective in the Knives Out franchise, according to recent remarks from Rian Johnson. Johnson, who writes, directs, and co-produces the series, clarified in an interview that there are no plans to recast Craig’s now-iconic character in any current or anticipated installment.
One Actor for One Detective: Johnson’s Perspective
Speaking with IndieWire, Rian Johnson addressed the comparison between recurring roles such as James Bond, which has been played by various actors, and Indiana Jones, which is closely linked to Harrison Ford. He stated,
He’s Indy. He’s Daniel doing it.
—Rian Johnson, Knives Out Writer/Director. Johnson left no doubt that for him, the character of Benoit Blanc exists through Craig’s performance alone.
Johnson further explained the unique creative bond he shares with Craig in making these films. He noted,
For me, personally, these movies are working with Daniel. It’s a partnership. And the instant either one of us feels even slightly like not doing it, we’ll stop doing it.
—Rian Johnson, Knives Out Writer/Director. He considers their partnership essential, focusing on their mutual commitment to the ongoing series.
Continuing his explanation, Johnson said,
We’re in the boat together in this thing. I think the pressure we both put on ourselves is trying to do right by the other one. And that’s a really good partnership. If Daniel is happy, I’m happy.
—Rian Johnson, Knives Out Writer/Director. According to Johnson, this partnership is what ensures the creative integrity of the films, with both participants striving to ensure each project meets their shared standards.
Looking Ahead to Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery
Johnson also revealed that collaboration with Daniel Craig has already begun on developing the next chapter in the film series. Craig’s hands-on involvement in shaping the character of Benoit Blanc has been noted in previous discussions with Entertainment Weekly and other publications. Their combined effort influences not just the portrayal of Blanc, but also the direction each mystery takes.
The third entry,
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery,”
had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025. The film is slated for a limited theatrical release in the US on November 26, 2025, and is set to become available on Netflix by December 12.
The Lasting Impact of the Johnson-Craig Collaboration
Based on Johnson’s firm statements and their creative partnership, audiences can expect Daniel Craig to remain Benoit Blanc for the foreseeable future. As this collaboration progresses, anticipation builds around how Craig and Johnson will continue to evolve the wildly popular whodunit saga.
