Stars turn out for world premiere of Skyfall
DANIEL Craig led a star-studded event to mark the world premiere of James Bond's 23rd film Skyfall at the Royal Albert Hall in London tonight.
Craig, who wore a smart Tom Ford suit, said he was "incredibly proud" to be playing the suave secret agent for the third time in his career.
And the 44-year-old British actor declared the red carpet launch of Skyfall as his greatest 007 premiere yet.
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I've never been to a premiere like this, it's incredible
"I've never been to a premiere like this, it's incredible," Craig said as he arrived at the venue, where guests filed past a huge gold 007 logo and a classic Aston Martin.
The iconic character, who was created by English author Ian Fleming, is celebrating 50 years since he first appeared on the big screen in the 1962 classic Dr No.
Craig was joined by Bond girls Naomie Harris and Bérénice Marlohe, along with Skyfall villain Javier Bardem at the glamorous event.
Skyfall star Daniel Craig wore a smart Tom Ford suit at the world premiere
Bardem said he was always drawn to Bond villains after seeing the metal-toothed baddie Jaws in Moonraker as a youngster.
Asked about the enduring appeal of the films, he said: "Well, 50 years is a long time. That means they have been doing something really right, starting with the actors who have played Bond. They have all brought their own flavour to it."
Bond girl Naomie Harris wore an eye-catching dress at the Skyfall world premiere
Oscar-winning American Beauty film-maker Sam Mendes was brought on board for the latest film, after Craig boldly invited him to work on it.
Also among the hundreds of guests filtering into the Albert Hall was Dame Judi Dench who returns once again as secret service boss M, and Ben Whishaw who stars as Q.
Gorgeous Bérénice Marlohe arrives at the world premiere of Skyfall at the Royal Albert Hall
Praising tonight's lavish launch, Craig told the BBC: "There's nothing quite like it. This feels even more special than the ones that have gone before for me."
An Aston Martin is displayed outside the Royal Albert Hall for the premiere of Skyfall