Daniel Craig could return as 007 as soon as next summer, following reports the latest James Bond film is back on track.
Sam Mendes has pulled out of negotiations to direct futuristic thriller The Hunger Games because MGM are ready to move forward with production on Bond 23, and shooting could begin by late summer or early autumn 2011, Deadline Hollywood reports.
The latest instalment from the top British spy was due to begin shooting this year, for release in 2011, directed by Sam and with Daniel returning as 007 for the third time. But the movie was put on indefinite hold, with EON Productions blaming the financial difficulties of MGM studios, which is reported to have a 3.7 billion-dollar (£2.4 billion) debt.
MGM announced this week that its lenders have agreed to extend the company's debt repayment period until October 29, 2010.
"The lenders took this action in support of the company's ongoing efforts to evaluate long-term strategic alternatives to maximize value for its stakeholders. MGM appreciates the continued support of its lender group throughout this process," it said.
The studio, which also has a stake in the forthcoming Hobbit movie, is going through a pre-packaged bankruptcy before Spyglass takes over.