Renowned Oscar winner Helen Mirren recently revealed her long-standing disdain for the James Bond franchise despite her admiration for the actors who have portrayed the iconic spy character. In an interview with The Standard, Mirren discussed her lack of interest in the 007 films and criticized the treatment of female characters within the series. This revelation comes as she stars alongside former Bond actor Pierce Brosnan in the new series MobLand.
The actress has a personal connection to the franchise, as her late cousin, Tania Mallet, starred as a Bond girl in the 1964 film Goldfinger. Nevertheless, Mirren has remained vocal about her disapproval, largely due to the way women have been portrayed in the series. “I have to say I was never a great ward of Bond,” Mirren stated. “I’m a huge fan of Pierce Brosnan… he’s fabulous in MobLand, but he also happens to be one of the nicest people you’ll ever have the pleasure to work with. And indeed Daniel Craig, who I’ve met and know a little bit. Again, a very lovely gracious person.”
Continuing her criticisms, Mirren emphasized, “The whole series of James Bond, it was not my thing. It really wasn’t. I never liked James Bond. I never liked the way women were in James Bond.” Her remarks come at a time of potential transformation for the franchise as speculation arises about the prospect of a gender-swapped James Bond. Yet, Mirren would not endorse such a change, as she believes the series is “drenched and born out of profound sexism.”
Mirren elaborated further on her view, explaining, “Women have always been a major and incredibly important part of the Secret Service, they always have been. And very brave. If you hear about what women did in the French Resistance, they’re amazingly, unbelievably courageous. So I would tell real stories about extraordinary women who’ve worked in that world.” Her comments highlight a desire for narratives that celebrate real-life heroines rather than altering existing male-dominated tales.
The future of the James Bond series remains uncertain, with rumors swirling around actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the potential next 007. Meanwhile, longstanding producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have stepped down from their creative roles, with Amy Pascal and David Heyman set to take the reins.
MobLand, featuring Helen Mirren alongside Pierce Brosnan, Tom Hardy, and an ensemble cast, is slated for a March 30, 2025, release on Paramount+. The show delves into the power struggles of London’s criminal underworld as rival families, the Harrigans and Stevensons, embark on a deadly battle. Mirren’s role as matriarch Maeve Harrigan adds a compelling dimension to the tale of crime and loyalty.
As Helen Mirren’s outspoken views on James Bond stir discussions about sexism in the entertainment industry, fans and critics alike await further developments in the legendary franchise. Her call for authentic storytelling about courageous women challenges filmmakers to consider fresh narratives and redefine representations of strength on screen.
