Helen Mirren Says James Bond Must Stay Male: “It Just Doesn’t Work”

The search for the next James Bond is heating up, and Oscar-winning actress Helen Mirren has shared her thoughts on who should take on the iconic role. Mirren, who spoke with Saga Magazine about her new movie The Thursday Murder Club, said that no matter what, James Bond should always be played by a man.

“I’m such a feminist. But you can’t have a woman. It just doesn’t work. James Bond has to be James Bond, otherwise it becomes something else,” Mirren told Saga Magazine.

Pierce Brosnan, who starred as Bond in four films during the ’90s and early 2000s, agreed with Mirren. He said he is excited to see who will step into the role next.

“I wish them well. 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. I adore the world of James Bond. It’s been very good to me. It’s the gift that keeps giving. And I’m just a member of the audience now, sitting back, saying: ‘Show us what you’re going to do,’” Brosnan told Saga Magazine.

Since Daniel Craig’s final outing as Bond in No Time To Die in 2021, fans have been guessing who could be the next 007. Now, Amazon has taken full creative control of the franchise, and things are moving quickly for the next film, Bond 26. Denis Villeneuve, the director known for movies like Dune and Prisoners, will direct, while Steven Knight is writing the script.

Longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have stepped aside, leaving the project in new hands. David Heyman and Amy Pascal will produce the film. Pascal has previously worked with Tom Holland on the Spider-Man movies and also produced Casino Royale. Rumors have suggested Holland could be a potential candidate to play Bond, but nothing is confirmed. Other names, like Aaron Taylor-Johnson, have also been mentioned.

So far, there is no official release date, title, or confirmed actor for Bond 26, but anticipation is high. Fans are watching closely as the next chapter of the legendary spy unfolds, hoping for someone who can bring new energy to James Bond while staying true to the character’s classic charm.

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