Which actor played detective Benoit Blanc in the film Knives Out?

Daniel Craig played detective Benoit Blanc in the film “Knives Out.”

Written and directed by Rian Johnson, “Knives Out” was released in 2019. Its plot follows Blanc as he investigates the death of wealthy mystery novelist Harlan Thrombey. The film uses the structure of a classic country-house mystery while adding contemporary family conflict, social commentary, and dark comedy.

Craig’s performance presents Blanc as a Southern-accented private detective with a formal manner and a talent for noticing inconsistencies. The character’s name is a reference to Benjamin Black, the pen name used by crime novelist John Banville, although the film does not depend on a direct literary adaptation.

“Knives Out” became the first film in a series featuring Blanc. Its sequel, “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” was released in 2022 and places the detective among guests on a private Greek island. The two films use different mysteries and ensembles.