Now that Amazon has creative control over the James Bond franchise, it seems more likely than ever that the iconic spy could eventually be played by a woman. For years, fans have debated what kind of actor could play 007. Many longtime fans of the James Bond movies insist that the leading role should only be played by a middle-aged British man. However, as times have evolved, other fans have claimed that a woman should play James Bond.
Seven actors have played James Bond in the franchise’s 60-plus year history. However, they have all been white men. After Daniel Craig concluded his tenure as Bond with 2021’s No Time to Die and Amazon took over creative control of the franchise, there will definitely be some major shakeups. Amid the major changes, former Moneypenny actor Naomie Harris claimed that James Bond could be played by a woman. In her explanation, Harris actually perfectly explains how a woman could easily play 007 in a future James Bond movie.
Naomie Harris Is Right – The Traits Needed To Play James Bond Can Be Embodied By A Male Or Female Actor
Harris Lists The Traits Needed In Any Version Of Bond
Since James Bond is such an iconic character, a gender-swapped version of the spy would likely cause an uproar from much of the fan base. However, since Amazon now has full creative control of James Bond, perhaps it is now time for the franchise to finally evolve. In a recent interview, Harris stated that the traits that any version of Bond needs to have are “sophistication, Sєxiness, mystery, sense of humor, charm.“ She further pointed out that these traits can be embodied by a male or female.
Since Sean Connery was the first actor to ever play James Bond, he has been the template for the character for decades. Connery undoubtedly had all of these traits, as did all of his successors. However, just because Bond has always been played by a man doesn’t mean it needs to continue to be that way. Therefore, I actually think that Harris is right in claiming that 007 could be played by a woman in a future movie.
James Bond’s Producer Exit Makes A Female Bond More Likely
Barbara Broccoli Never Wanted A Female Bond
Since gender roles have evolved dramatically in the last few decades, it is not surprising that the idea of a female Bond is now being talked about more. However, despite societal changes, longtime James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli always insisted that the famous spy would never be played by a woman. Broccoli claimed that original roles should be created for women, rather than simply casting them in a man’s role. Therefore, while she believes there should be more woman-led movies, Broccoli does not believe Bond is the right role for a woman.
A female Bond could reach a new audience demographic.
However, now that Amazon has gained control of the franchise, Broccoli no longer has a say over the creative direction of future James Bond movies. Therefore, it is more likely than ever that a female Bond will lead a future movie in the franchise. Even though Broccoli doesn’t think it’s a good idea, Amazon executives may feel differently, and may even believe that a female Bond could reach a new audience demographic. Because of this, it would not be surprising if a female Bond movie is greenlit at some point in the future.
Amazon’s First Bond Is Unlikely To Be A Woman, But Future Bonds Could Be
Amazon’s First Bond Movie Needs To Be A Success
While a female Bond could be seen as an enticing idea for Amazon executives, I don’t think the first 007 that the company casts will be a woman. Amazon paid a lot of money for the rights to the James Bond franchise and supposedly clashed with the Broccoli family for years, so they will likely want to play things relatively safe at first. After all, it would be a shame if Amazon’s first James Bond movie was heavily criticized or seen as a downgrade.
In addition to James Bond movies, Amazon will also likely produce spinoff movies and shows set within the franchise.
However you look at it, casting a woman to play Bond would be a major risk for Amazon. While the company may be willing to take this risk eventually, potentially once they have earned some goodwill from fans, I think they will play it safe for the next few years. To ensure that their first James Bond movie is well-received, I believe they will cast an uncontroversial actor in the leading role. Therefore, while Harris’ comments are correct, I think it will still be many years before we see a female version of James Bond.
James Bond
- Created by
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Ian Fleming, Albert R. Broccoli
- First Film
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Dr. No
- Latest Film
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No Time to Die
- Upcoming Films
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James Bond 26
Summary
The James Bond franchise centers on the fictional British Secret Service agent James Bond, also known by his code number 007. Created by writer Ian Fleming in 1953, Bond has been featured in novels, films, television, radio, comics, and video games. The film series, produced by Eon Productions, is one of the longest-running and highest-grossing franchises in history, known for its blend of espionage, action, and sophisticated style.
