The New James Bond Announced

Daniel Craig was introduced Friday as the first blond James Bond and the third Englishman to star as Agent 007 in the movie series.

Craig's selection was revealed as he was whisked down the Thames River (search) aboard a military boat to a news conference. Craig replaces Pierce Brosnan in the role of the suave spy in 'Casino Royale,' due in theaters next year.
'I'm speechless,' the star said, after posing for photos with producer Barbara Broccoli and director Martin Campbell.

'Daniel is a superb actor who has all the qualities needed to bring a contemporary edge to the role,' Broccoli and Campbell said in a statement.
Producers announced last year that they were seeking a replacement for Brosnan, who has played Bond in the last four films.

Craig, 37, is the first blond actor to play agent 007. Relatively unknown outside Britain (search), he has had a busy career that includes roles in the landmark 1990s British TV drama 'Our Friends in the North' and films including 'The Mother,' 'Enduring Love' and 'Layer Cake.' source: FOXNews.com