Mendes confirmed, Morgan out, Marber in?

As the future of MGM remains undecided, The Telegraph claims there’s movement behind the scenes of Bond 23.

Peter Morgan – off Bond 23?

According to the paper, James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli has confirmed that American Beauty helmer Sam Mendes will direct the next 007 outing.

It had previously been reported that the Oscar-winning director was attached only in a “consultant” capacity.

The Telegraph also reports that The Queen screenwriter Peter Morgan is no longer working on the script for the 23rd Bond film. Morgan boarded Bond 23 alongside 007 regulars Neal Purvis and Robert Wade in June last year.

Mendes is reportedly seeking playwright and screenwriter Patrick Marber to replace Morgan on the film. Marber is the scribe behind Notes on a Scandal and Closer (having written and directed the play from which it was adapted). He has also written and starred in several projects featuring Steve Coogan’s inept TV presenter Alan Partridge, including The Day Today and Knowing Me, Knowing You.

However, the Telegraph couldn’t get confirmation of the writer switch from MGM. A studio spokesperson said, “The filmmakers say the Morgan/Marber switch is just speculation.”

Keep watching CommanderBond.net for confirmation or denial of these rumours as soon as it emerges.