Just as former political leaders are frequently asked about current events, former James Bond actors are often quizzed about who should step into the iconic role next.
While Daniel Craig has famously remained indifferent, his predecessor, Pierce Brosnan, has expressed a firm opinion: the next 007 should not be American.
In an interview with the UK’s Daily Telegraph, the Irish actor—who played James Bond in four films between 1995 and 2002—stated that it’s “a given” that the role should stay British. His comments follow Amazon’s recent multi-million-dollar takeover of the Bond franchise, which saw producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson retain creative control.
“It takes great courage for them to let go,” Brosnan said of the long-time Bond producers. “I hope that [Amazon] handles the work and the character with dignity, imagination, and respect… History has been passed on, and I’m very proud to have been part of the legacy of Bond.”
Ian Fleming’s original novels establish Bond’s heritage, with a Scottish father and Swiss mother. Despite this, only two non-English actors have ever portrayed the legendary spy—Brosnan, who is Irish, and Australian George Lazenby.
According to a report from the Daily Mail, an internal memo at Amazon confirmed that Bond would remain “male and British or Commonwealth” in any future adaptations. This criterion would technically disqualify Brosnan, as Ireland is neither British nor part of the Commonwealth.
From Sean Connery’s Scottish brogue to Roger Moore and Daniel Craig’s polished English accents, the role of 007 has always embodied British charm. Brosnan, for his part, believes it should stay that way.
Source: Deadline