Daniel Craig on Chappell Roan's Courage

After stepping away from the iconic role of James Bond following the release of “No Time to Die,” Daniel Craig is now embracing a more liberated phase of his life and career. In a candid interview with The New York Times, Craig highlighted the inspiring journey of rising star Chappell Roan, who has uniquely navigated the pressures of fame while prioritizing her mental health.

“I really admire the guts to say those things,” Craig remarked, praising Roan's commitment to setting boundaries against the toxic demands often imposed by fans. He elaborated, “Celebrity can be a double-edged sword; it’s a terrible, terrible thing that can happen to you. It’s easy to be drawn into everything it throws your way, and you must fight against that temptation.”

Challenges in the Entertainment Industry

In an age where artists are constantly urged to project their lives online and maintain an ever-present public persona, Craig acknowledged the challenges they face. “Maintaining your brand often means how much exposure you’re willing to give,” he stated, throwing light on the sometimes grueling expectations in the entertainment industry.

Reflecting on Bond and Personal Growth

Reflecting on his time as Bond, Craig admitted he often shied away from taking on more challenging and daring roles, like that of the character he portrays in Luca Guadagnino’s upcoming film “Queer.” “I know many strong men who exhibit vulnerability, and I find that dynamic fascinating,” Craig said, hinting at his desire to explore complex characters beyond the steadfast persona of 007.

Set against the backdrop of post-war Mexico City, “Queer” presents a character that resonates deeply with Craig. “I see parts of myself in this character—the pain, longing, love, and uncertainty,” he shared, exposing a more personal side of the artist. The actor acknowledged the mental struggle he faced while interpreting less conventional roles during his tenure as Bond, saying, “I’ve spent a lot of time examining myself over the years, and at one point I isolated myself, thinking, ‘I can’t explore that darkness because it’s so important.’”

Anticipation for 'Queer'