Even though he won't be seen on the big screen as James Bond until "Casino Royale" opens Nov. 17, Daniel Craig, the latest actor to be granted a license to kill, will remain on Her Majesty's Secret Service for a second film.

James Bond franchise producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said Thursday that Craig star will return as Agent 007 for the 22nd installment in the franchise, which has a working title of "Bond 22."

MGM and Sony Pictures Entertainment also have carved out a spot on the schedule for the film, which will be released by Columbia Pictures on May 2, 2008. Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment recently staked out the same date for the bow of their comic book-based tentpole "Iron Man" (HR 6/23).

"Notting Hill" helmer Roger Michell, who worked with Craig on the 2004 drama "Enduring Love," is in negotiations to direct the "Casino Royale" follow-up (HR 7/17).

Wilson and Broccoli lauded Craig for creating "a darker and edgier" protagonist. "As we wrap production on 'Casino Royale,' we couldn't be more excited about the direction the franchise is heading with Daniel Craig," they added.

Sources said Craig already had signed a multipicture deal, and the announcement reflects the producers' decision to bring the actor back for another turn.

Bond franchise holder Eon Prods. has remained tight-lipped about the 22nd film's plot line, though it is believed to be based on an original idea from Wilson.

Craig is repped by CAA and ICM London.