Helen Mirren Says James Bond "Has to Be a Guy"
While she’s stepping into the shoes of a retired British spy in the upcoming film The Thursday Murder Club, Helen Mirren recently shared her thoughts on the future of James Bond, and she’s drawing a firm line on the character’s identity.
In a recent interview with Saga Magazine (via BBC News), Mirren spoke alongside her co-star Pierce Brosnan, who famously portrayed 007 through the '90s and early 2000s.
While discussing her role as Elizabeth, a more grounded and age-appropriate version of a secret agent, Mirren touched on the very different world of James Bond.
“So many women have worked in that world. She’s a manifestation of a reality, that’s for sure,” Mirren said of her character. “But not so much fun as Bond!”
When asked about the future of the Bond franchise and whether a woman could take on the iconic role, Mirren said.
“I’m such a feminist, but James Bond has to be a guy. You can’t have a woman. It just doesn’t work. James Bond has to be James Bond, otherwise it becomes something else.”
As you know, conversations around gender-swapping legacy characters continue to spark debates online. The Bond franchise has faced this question since Daniel Craig exited the role in 2021 with No Time to Die. Speculation about the next 007 intensified after Amazon acquired MGM and the rights to the Bond series.
According to reports, the studio is looking for a British actor under 30, with Jacob Elordi, Tom Holland, and Harris Dickinson rumored as contenders.
The next chapter of the franchise is already starting to take shape behind the scenes. Dune director Denis Villeneuve is reportedly set to helm the new Bond film, with Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight handling the script.
As for Brosnan, he’s watching the developments with enthusiasm and support for whoever takes over the iconic role. “I’m so excited to see the next man come on the stage and to see a whole new exuberance and life for this character,” he said.
“I adore the world of James Bond. It’s been very good to me. It’s the gift that keeps giving,” Brosnan added. “And I’m just a member of the audience now, sitting back, saying: ‘Show us what you’re going to do.’”
Whether or not the next Bond stays true to the traditional mold or veers in a wild new direction, fans and former 007s alike are watching closely to see how this plays out.