( EW.com ) -- Despite `` Skyfall '' being the most commercially successful `` James Bond '' movie ever , director Sam Mendes wo n't be returning for Bond 's next go-round . Mendes ' rep confirmed the director 's statement in Empire magazine , which explains that he will not direct James Bond 's 24th adventure . `` It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael [ G. Wilson ] and Barbara [ Broccoli ] 's very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie , '' Mendes said . `` Directing Skyfall was one of the best experiences of my professional life , but I have theatre and other commitments , including productions of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and King Lear , that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond . '' Orson Scott Card 's 'Superman ' artist exits . But while Mendes said he wo n't be directing 007â€²s next picture , he did n't rule out a return to the franchise later on . `` I feel very honoured to have been part of the Bond family , '' said Mendes , `` and very much hope I have a chance to work with them again sometime in the future . '' With Mendes out of the running , who would you like to see direct the next James Bond flick ? See the original article at EW.com . Chris Nashawaty contributed to this report . CLICK HERE to Try 2 RISK FREE issues of Entertainment Weekly . © 2011 Entertainment Weekly and Time Inc. All rights reserved .
Mendes wo n't be returning for Time Inc. 's next go-round . Sam Mendes ' rep confirmed that he wo n't direct Mendes 24th adventure . While Mendes said he wo n't be directing 007â€²s next picture , he did n't rule out a return later on .