Daniel Craig Steps Away from Luca Guadagnino’s ‘Sgt. Rock’: What’s Next for DC’s War Movie?

Daniel Craig will not be joining the DC Universe after all. He has decided to step away from the lead role in “Sgt. Rock,” a film based on the DC Comics character. This movie is directed by Luca Guadagnino, who worked with Craig in “Queer,” with a screenplay by Justin Kuritzkes. Although there were rumors about his involvement since November, sources say Craig never officially signed on. DC Studios had no comment on the matter.

The character of Sgt. Rock, who first appeared in 1959, isn’t your typical superhero. Instead, he serves as a non-commissioned officer in the U.S. Army, leading his squad, Easy Company, through World War II in Europe. Eventually, he even becomes chief of staff for Lex Luthor. DC Studios’ co-chiefs, James Gunn and Peter Safran, are enthusiastic about the project, viewing it as a chance to showcase different types of stories under the DC brand. They are already looking for another actor to take on the role.

Craig’s recent work in “Queer” received praise, marking one of the highest points in his career, although it didn’t lead to many award nominations. Fans can look forward to seeing him next as detective Benoit Blanc in “Wake Up Dead Man,” which is the third film in Rian Johnson’s “Knives Out” series. He is also set to appear alongside Charlize Theron in “Two for the Money,” directed by Justin Lin for Apple Studios.

As for Guadagnino, he continues his busy filmmaking schedule with the thriller “After the Hunt,” starring Julia Roberts, set to release this October. Additionally, he is working on a new version of “American Psycho” featuring Austin Butler and a gay romance film called “Separate Rooms” with Josh O’Connor.