Pierce Brosnan has no problem with a gay James Bond, but Hollywood might feel differently. The former James Bond has praised the idea of a gay 007, while admitting producers would never let it happen. Interviewed in Details, the 62-year-old Irish actor suggested a version of Ian Fleming’s suave super-spy with homosexual leanings would “make for interesting viewing”. [1] But he pointed out that Bond production company Eon, in the former of long-term 007 flame-keeper Barbara Broccoli, would most likely torpedo the idea. “Sure. Why not?” said Brosnan, when asked if he could picture a gay Bond. After a pause he then added: “Actually, I don’t know how it would work. I don’t think Barbara would allow a gay Bond to happen in her lifetime. But it would certainly make for interesting viewing.” [17] The actor suggested changes to 007’s racial makeup might be a more realistic progressive goal. “Let’s start with a great black actor being James Bond,” he said. “Idris Elba certainly has the physicality, the charisma, the presence. But I think Daniel [Craig] will be there for a while yet.” [1] [11] Elba has long been the strongest contender to succeed Craig and the Sony Pictures hack last November revealed that the studio thought the British actor “should be the next Bond”. Elba responded to the email in a tweet, saying “Glad you think I’ve got a shot!” and confirming that he would accept the role if it was offered to him. [5] It’s worth mentioning at this point that his comments do not in any way reflect Broccoli’s personal views on the matter, or indeed her views on the LGBTQ community as a whole. More likely, Broccoli’s reluctance for the change in Bond’s sexuality would stem from the fact that (for most people) Bond is just not gay. [3]
The debate over whether or not the womanizing Bond could be re-cast as, well, a man’s man has been brewing for some time. In a new interview with PrideSource, “Star Trek” and “American Horror Story” star Zachary Quinto bemoaned the lack of gay actors in big-screen action roles, saying he “definitely” thinks there can be a gay Bond in the future. [15] Meanwhile, an erotically-charged scene in 2012’s “Skyfall” where Silva (played by Javier Bardem) unbuttons Bond’s tuxedo shirt and caresses his thighs led some fans to believe that Bardem’s character was gay. [11] Elba and Damian Lewis have both emerged as fan favourites to take over the role of Bond when Craig steps down. [2]
