When Sam Mendes had his first press conference for Skyfall, he was very coy about who certain people would be playing, including Ben Whishaw. Most speculation centred on him playing the latest take on the character Q, but it’s only now that’s been confirmed, and the first image of him in the role has been released.
Whishaw becomes the fourth actor to play Bonds quartermaster affectionately known as Q. The role began with Peter Burton as Major Boothroyd in Dr. No, followed by Desmond Llewelyn (in 17 Bond films between 1963-1999), and John Cleese (who appeared as Qs assistant, R, in The World is Not Enough and was later promoted to Q in Die Another Day).
Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli commented, “Its a real thrill to confirm the return of Q in Skyfall played by the enormously talented, Ben Whishaw. We are delighted to have this beloved character back in the series.
Skyfall hits UK cinemas on October 26th.