The official James Bond website has released the first photo of British actor Ben Whishaw as Q in Skyfall.

Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli today confirmed the long-rumoured news that Whishaw will become the fourth actor to play Bond’s quartermaster, known as Q.

The pair commented: “It’s a real thrill to confirm the return of Q in Skyfall, played by the enormously talented Ben Whishaw. We are delighted to have this beloved character back in the series.”

The role was first played by Peter Burton as Major Boothroyd in Dr. No, followed by Desmond Llewelyn between 1963-1999 in seventeen Bond films, and most recently by Monty Python star John Cleese.

Ben Whishaw will return to BBC Two for a second series of The Hour this autumn.

Are you glad to see Q back? Let us know below…

Set for release in UK cinemas on 26th October, Skyfall is directed by Sam Mendes (American Beauty) and stars Daniel Craig in the role of 007 for a third time.

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Watch the Skyfall trailer…