The acquisition of the James Bond franchise by Amazon has raised concerns among former Bond girls about the series’ future direction and legacy.
Earlier this week, Amazon’s acquisition of creative control over the James Bond franchise has sparked mixed reactions, particularly from former Bond girls who have voiced their concerns about the implications for the iconic series. This transition represents a significant shift in oversight, as the franchise was historically managed by longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, children of Albert “Cubby” Broccoli, who was essential in establishing the series in 1962.
As speculation continues about who will take over the role of James Bond following Daniel Craig’s departure, fans eagerly await updates on future films. However, regardless of who dons the tuxedo next, the films are renowned for their inclusion of memorable Bond Girls, who have become integral to the franchise’s identity over the decades.
One of the most notable Bond Girls, Ursula Andress, made her unforgettable debut in the 1962 film Dr. No, where she became iconic for emerging from the ocean in a white bikini. At 88 years old, the Swiss actress reflected on her career, which included winning a Golden Globe and starring in the 1967 parody, Casino Royale. Another notable figure, 83-year-old Daniela Bianchi, played Russian agent Tatiana Romanova in From Russia with Love (1963) and later transitioned away from acting to marry a shipping magnate.
Barbara Bach, known for her role as Anya Amasova in The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), remains a prominent figure at 77. Her connection to music history is marked by her marriage to former Beatles drummer Ringo Starr after they met while filming Caveman in 1980. Jill St. John, the first American Bond girl, portrayed Tiffany Case in Diamonds Are Forever (1971) and at 84, has since transitioned to a quieter life with actor Robert Wagner.
Lois Chiles, another notable Bond Girl, starred as Holly Goodhead in the Roger Moore classic, Moonraker (1979). The 77-year-old actress had a diverse career that included roles in popular television series Dallas and multiple films. Other Bond Girls with lasting careers include Mie Hama, who portrayed Kissy Suzuki in You Only Live Twice (1967), and Valerie Leon, who had roles in both The Spy Who Loved Me and Never Say Never Again.
Valerie Leon has publicly expressed her dissatisfaction with Amazon’s new role in shaping the franchise. Appearing on Good Morning Britain, she stated, “The Bond franchise was very British and it won’t be anymore,” expressing concerns about potential changes in spirit and distribution. At 81, she is among a cohort of actresses who reflect on their past in the franchise while commenting on its future direction.
Britt Ekland, famously known for her role as Mary Goodnight in The Man with the Golden Gun (1974), has also candidly discussed her experiences with cosmetic surgery, referring to it as a misstep. Honor Blackman, who played the formidable Pussy Galore in Goldfinger (1964), passed away in April 2020; her significant contribution to the franchise remains celebrated.
Maud Adams, who uniquely portrayed two different Bond Girls, and Grace Jones, who is recognized as both a Bond Girl and a prominent figure in music and modeling, exemplify the diversity within the Bond Girl roles. Jane Seymour, who gained fame as the psychic Solitaire in Live and Let Die (1973), expressed appreciation for her evolving career, noting that age brings more interesting roles.
Diana Rigg, acclaimed for her portrayal of Countess Teresa di Vicenzo in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), left a lasting legacy in acting until her passing in September 2020. Lastly, Izabella Scorupco, known for her role in GoldenEye (1995), has successfully transitioned into music while also balancing her personal life in Los Angeles.
As the Bond franchise shifts into this new era under Amazon’s leadership, the reverberations of these changes can be felt among its legacy actresses, underscoring the impact that the portrayal of strong female characters has had on the series and its history.
Source: Noah Wire Services
