Pierce Brosnan has voiced his support for Helen Mirren’s recent remarks calling out the James Bond franchise for its sexist undertones. During the New York City premiere of their new Paramount+ series, MobLand, Brosnan told PEOPLE that he agrees with Mirren’s views on how women have been portrayed in the iconic 007 movies.
“She let them have it,” said Brosnan, 71, referring to Mirren’s interview with The London Standard, where she said the Bond series was “not my thing” due to its historic portrayal of women.
Although the two actors didn’t discuss the subject personally, Brosnan, who famously portrayed James Bond in four films from 1995 to 2002, confirmed his alignment with her perspective.
“Yes, there’s a certain agreement there,” Brosnan admitted. “But there’s a certain world and room to move within the proscenium arch of what Ian Fleming put down. So there’s always going to be conflict.”
Helen Mirren Criticizes Sexism in James Bond Films
In her interview, Helen Mirren, 79, expressed admiration for actors like Brosnan and Daniel Craig, but made it clear she never liked the James Bond character himself.
“The whole concept of James Bond is drenched and born out of profound sexism,” she said. “I never liked the way women were portrayed in James Bond.”
Rather than casting a woman as Bond, Mirren suggested the film industry should focus on telling authentic stories about female spies. She praised the bravery of real-life women in espionage, citing their roles in history such as the French Resistance.
“Women have always played incredibly important roles in the Secret Service. I’d rather see real stories about courageous women who operated in that world,” she said.
Brosnan and Mirren Reunite for Paramount+’s MobLand
Despite Mirren’s critique of the Bond legacy, her friendship with Brosnan remains strong. The pair recently teamed up in Guy Ritchie’s new crime drama series MobLand, which premiered on March 30, 2025, and airs Sundays on Paramount+.
Their appearance at the premiere sparked conversations not only about the series but also about the future of James Bond. With Daniel Craig stepping down after 2021’s No Time to Die, speculation continues around who will take up the 007 mantle next.
When asked about it, Brosnan simply said:
“I wish them all well.”