Having been praised for his handling of last year’s box-office hit Skyfall (i.e. ‘the best Bond film ever’), Sam Mendes has finally made a U-turn and agreed to return to the franchise and direct the much-anticipated sequel.

BBC News confirmed the Oscar-winning director’s return for Bond 24 along with screenwriter John Logan earlier this evening. The film’s release date has also been scheduled for October 23rd 2015.

Mendes gave a brief statement with regards to his eventual involvement:

“I am very pleased that by giving me the time I need to honour all my theatre commitments, the producers have made it possible for me to direct Bond 24. I very much look forward to taking up the reins again, and to working with Daniel Craig, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for a second time.”

The American Beauty and Revolutionary Road filmmaker had originally turned down the chance to helm Bond 24 because of other commitments but fortunately has had a change of heart.

Leading star Daniel Craig (James Bond) is set to make his fourth appearance as the 007 spy with Skyfall newcomers Ralph Fiennes (M), Naomie Harris (Miss Moneypenny) and Ben Whishaw (Q) also coming back.

Production is reportedly set to start on Bond 24 later this year though an official announcement will be made soon.