Ian Fleming’s iconic series of fictional accounts that follow British spy, Bond,James Bond, were (and still are) so popular that they earned themselves a movie franchise spanning seven decades and counting. Misogyny was an unfortunate byproduct of the period in which Fleming penned his novels, and thus, Bond’s treatment, or rather, maltreatment of the opposite sex has brought the films, books, and British spy a particular level of infamy as a serial womanizer.
FromSkyfallandSpectretoNo Time to Die, Bond screenwriters and producers have been striving towards a more even playing field that is more representative of the current societal climate. With that in mind, it has been refreshing to see a more diverse and eclectic mix of people gradually introduced to a movie that has always presented the ideals of a powerful white man. With the status of the new 007 still very much up for grabs, and increasing talk of it being either a woman (as seen inDoctor Who) or someone of color (as also seen inDoctor Whowith Ncuti Gatwa), times have never looked so positive for women in the Bond franchise. Let’s take a look at actresses who could take on the mighty role of the Martini-drinking spy…
Emily Blunt
Not only isEmily Blunta tremendous actress, with an excellent command of the Queen’s English, but her ability in a role such as Bond’s has arguably been proven more emphatically than most. Indirector Denis Villeneuve’s2015 crime thriller,SicarioBlunt plays special agent Kate Macer, whose character arc shifts from out-of-her-depth CIA agent, to fully fledged special forces operator, guided by a sturdy moral compass, a fearlessness in danger, and composure with a finger on the trigger. Having starred opposite Tom Cruise in Doug Liman’sEdge of Tomorrowas well, if the role were to arise, her filmography further adds weight to her case to be the next Bond.
Uma Thurman
At 52, it’s probably fair to say that any actor or actress’ Bond hopes are pretty slim. However, hypothetically, if we were to rewind to 1994 and the beginning of the millennium,Uma Thurman’s prowess as a fledgling action star was blossoming thanks to roles in Tarantino’sPulp Fiction, and more aptly, the samurai sword-wielding Bride inKill Billsaw her become hot property.
Pierce Brosnan was not only considered to be one of the worst James Bonds after he emerged in the ’90s, but two of the films he starred in,The World Is Not EnoughtoDie Another Day,were arguably the worst of the franchise. That said, the recruitment of Thurman would have made a refreshing change at the time, and even in 2023, she could probably still kick ass.
Lashana Lynch
There’ll be many a raised eyebrow at this selection, not least becauseLashana Lynchhas already starred in a 007 film withNo Time to Die,albeit as her character, Nomi, and not as the titular Bond. Not only did she demonstrate her credentials in the final installment of the Craig era, but also in the likes ofCaptain Marveland in last year’sThe Woman Kingas a lethal warrior of Dahomey. There has also been discussion aboutLashana Lynch’s characterbeing the subject of a potential Bond spinoff if she doesn’t become the next Bond.
Michelle Dockery
Rising to fame inthe supremely popularDownton Abbey,plying one’s trade in a period drama set at a stately home among aristocrats, is perhaps not ideal preparation for a role as the famously rugged British spy. However,Michelle Dockery’s performance alongside Matthew McConaughey in Guy Ritchie’sThe Gentlemenis most definitely a step in the right direction. An immaculately dressed, sexually empowered woman like her character, Rosalind, could fit the mantle of Bond seamlessly.
Anya Taylor Joy
As one of the most exciting up-and-coming prospects currently in the film industry,Anya Taylor-Joyis going from strength to strength. FromThe Queen’s GambitandThe Menu, toThe NorthmanandLast Night in Soho, she has portrayed a true variation of character types with equal vigor and pizazz. It is as Gina Gray inPeaky Blinders, though, that Anya Taylor-Joy really highlights her aptitude as a credible action force with the same enticing, cutting-edge attributes that make Bond such a captivating character.
Gal Gadotis one of few acting talents that could cross the divide, and could just as feasibly be aforce for evil in a Bond movie.However, the Israeli actress has become a prominent figure in the MCU as Wonder Woman, as well as starring as a notorious art thief in Netflix’sRed Notice, so her penchant for combining action stunts, a “badass” vibe, and a real, dominant presence in front of the camera would make her an incredibly alluring option.
Ana de Armas
Similar to Lashana Lynch,Ana de Armashas already made her debut in the 007 franchise, as Paloma inNo Time to Die.However, the Cuban-Spanish director has demonstrated her immense dexterity over the last few years with an array of spellbinding performances, playing the likes of Marilyn Monroe inBlonde, Joi in Denis Villeneuve’sBlade Runner 2049, and as the lead in theupcomingJohn WickspinoffBallerina. So, sporting a quirky British accent, a Savile Row suit, and spinning round in a vintage Aston Martin is certainly something she’d master with aplomb. That being said, the actress was vocal about there not beingany need for a female Bond.
