Bond star Daniel Craig departs The Whole Truth days before shooting set to begin

Daniel Craig has abruptly pulled out of courtroom drama The Whole Truth just days before shooting was set to begin in Boston.

The James Bond star, 46, has departed Courtney Hunt’s film for as yet unknown reasons, leaving producers in a desperate scramble to find a new lead actor.

Local paper The Boston Globe first reported the news, citing “local film industry professionals” who were due to work on the movie.

Craig was cast as a defence lawyer who must battle to clear the name of teenager Gabriel Basso, accused of killing his rich father.

US actress Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones' Diary, Chicago) remains attached to the project, which has been delayed until further notice.

The start date is believed to have been pushed back three weeks, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The script has been penned by Nicholas Kazan (Enough), with Richard Suckle and Anthony Bregman down to produce.

Craig is set to start filming for the 24th 007 film this autumn ahead of a late 2015 release. He debuted in the famous role as a replacement for Pierce Brosnan in 2006’s Casino Royale.