In 2021, Lashana Lynch joined the James Bond universe as Nomi, sparking widespread speculation about the possibility of a female James Bond. In the storyline, Nomi wasn’t the new James Bond but instead assumed the iconic “007” title when Bond was presumed missing.
This development raised an intriguing question: Could a future iteration of James Bond actually be a woman? After all, similar transformations have occurred in franchises like Doctor Who, Dune, and even the recent Matlock reboot.
In a recent interview with The Times in the UK, former Bond girl Gemma Arterton shared her thoughts, expressing skepticism about the idea of a female Bond. “They talk about it, but I think people would find it too outrageous,” she remarked.
Arterton’s comments come as speculation around the next actor to portray Bond intensifies. It’s been three years since No Time to Die hit theaters, and throughout this period, long-time Bond producer Barbara Broccoli has consistently stated that the next James Bond will be a man, likely someone in his mid-30s.
Gemma Arterton (Photo: Getty Images)
Still, as Arterton notes, the idea of a woman playing Bond continues to attract attention. During the press tour for her Netflix spy series Black Doves, Keira Knightley playfully suggested she’d make a fantastic Bond, adding her voice to the ongoing debate.
Despite appearing in just one James Bond film, 2008’s Quantum of Solace, Arterton firmly believes that the 007 tradition is best upheld by keeping Bond male.
“Sometimes you just have to respect the tradition,” she said, referencing the character’s association with martinis, fast cars, and a distinctly masculine persona.
Arterton’s character in Quantum of Solace, Strawberry Fields, had limited screen time but left a lasting impression—a phenomenon the actress admits puzzles her. “I don’t regret doing a Bond film,” she said. “But I am perplexed why it has followed me around. I was only in the film for five minutes.”
