Sam Mendes' Skyfall has been hailed as one of the best Bond movies of all time, so it comes as no surprise that producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli made Mendes an offer to direct Bond 24. But sadly for fans of the latest instalment in the Bond franchise, Mendes has confirmed that he will not be accepting their offer, citing upcoming theatrical commitments that need his attention. 

"It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara's very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie," he told Empire. 

"Directing Skyfall was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theatre and other commitments, including productions of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and King Lear, that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond."

However, before you give up hope, Mendes did go on to hint that he would be interested in returning to the franchise at a later date in his career: "I feel very honoured to have been part of the Bond family and very much hope I have a chance to work with them again sometime in the future."

Sad news indeed for fans of Skyfall, but with a re-jigged cast that now includes Ralph Fiennes and Naomie Harris as M and Moneypenny, producers certainly won't be short of acclaimed directors willing to take on the coveted role.

Who would you like to see direct the next Bond movie? Share your thoughts in the comment box below...