Many actors have portrayed 007 over the last four decades, from Sean Connery to Daniel Craig. They've all been more or less the same in appearance, not without reason, given that the films have each adapted one of Ian Fleming's many acclaimed James Bond novels.
Times have changed and James Bond as a character is increasingly becoming a relic of the past -- a character that encompasses the ideals of a bygone era. It's time for drastic change, like introducing a female Bond. Former Bond actor Pierce Brosnan seems to agree. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Brosnan was asked about his thoughts on a female Bond. The actor stated, "Yes! I think we've watched the guys do it for the last 40 years. Get out of the way, guys, and put a woman up there." Brosnan added, "I think it would be exhilarating, it would be exciting."
Despite his enthusiasm, he expressed doubt over whether or not it would ever happen, at least not while the franchise's current producers are involved. "I don't think that's going to happen with the Broccolis. I don't think that is going to happen under their watch." These views are far from unfounded. In fact, Barbara Broccoli made her views clear and claimed that the Bond films would never depict a female Bond.
Brosnan then revealed how he believed the franchise should change -- assuming that it does -- and adapt to current attitudes, particularly in the #MeToo era. He stated, "The #MeToo movement has been relevant and significant and well needed in our society, so they'll have to address that."
Looking back at his decade-long career as 007, Brosnan said, "James Bond has a certain significance and a deep pride. I will be asked about him until my dying days – it just goes with the territory. He's a beloved character," concluding, "I was honored to play the role and I rejuvenated a franchise that had been dormant."
A female James Bond may not happen in the foreseeable future, but the codename 007 will reportedly be assigned to a woman in the upcoming No Time to Die with Lashana Lynch currently attached to take on the role, presumably at the end, possibly leading into her very own Bond film.
Directed and co-written by Cary Fukunaga, Bond 25 stars Daniel Craig, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Rory Kinnear, Léa Seydoux, Ben Whishaw, Jeffrey Wright, Ana de Armas, Dali Benssalah, David Dencik, Lashana Lynch, Billy Magnussen and Rami Malek. It is scheduled for release on April 8, 2020.