Shaken or Stirred, The Martinis Would Be Extra Fruity

The last James Bond movie saw the death of the iconic spy, and now the hunt is on for a replacement. Will he be black, asian? A Latina woman? The possibilities are endless, but some fans are calling for the next Bond to be gay.

The question is, is this a possibility, or just wishful thinking? And if it were to happen, how would audiences react? Let's dive in and explore.

Why It Would Be Good For Us

One of the main benefits of a gay James Bond is the normalization of queer identities. Hollywood has a long history of casting straight actors in gay roles, while the opposite rarely occurs. 

If James Bond were to be openly gay in the next film, it could help to normalize homosexuality and challenge the notion that straight is the default. This could have a significant impact on younger audiences who are grappling with their own sexual identity and could benefit from seeing queer representation in mainstream media.

Furthermore, a gay Bond could provide a nuanced portrayal of a queer man. The film could explore the struggles that many gay men face, such as coming out, navigating relationships, and the stigma and discrimination that still exists in many parts of the world. 

A gay Bond would not only be a more authentic representation of queer people, but it would also provide a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of queer identity.

A gay James Bond could also help to challenge toxic masculinity, which has been a recurring theme throughout the Bond franchise. Bond has been portrayed as a hypermasculine figure who is often portrayed as emotionless, detached, and lacking in vulnerability.

By making Bond gay, the filmmakers would be forced to reconsider and redefine what it means to be masculine, and this could have a positive impact on the way that straight men see and interact with queer men.

Moreover, a gay Bond would be a significant step forward for the queer community on a global stage. Bond films have a massive international following, and the character has become an icon of British culture. A gay Bond would be seen by millions of people around the world, and this could help to break down barriers and stereotypes that still exist in many parts of the world.

A gay Bond could also provide an opportunity for the queer community to be seen and celebrated in a way that is not often afforded to them in mainstream media.

Finally, a gay Bond would be a step forward for diversity and representation. The Bond franchise has been criticized for its lack of diversity, with most of the lead actors being white and male. A gay Bond could provide an opportunity for a more diverse and inclusive Bond franchise, with greater representation for women, people of color, and other marginalized groups.

The Idea of a Gay James Bond: Is It Plausible?

The notion of a gay James Bond has been floating around for a while now, and while it seems like a progressive idea, some critics and fans aren't convinced it's the right direction to take. Some argue that changing the character's sexual orientation is unnecessary and could potentially damage the franchise's legacy.

However, others see this as an opportunity to bring the Bond franchise into the 21st century and to expand its audience. As actor and LGBT advocate, Rupert Everett said, "It's high time that a gay actor played James Bond, given that so many closeted stars have taken on the iconic role over the years." 

Speaking of celebrities, here’s a round-up of what many have said: 

Charlize Theron, actress

"I think it would be interesting to see a gay James Bond. It would be a bold move, but it could open up new avenues for storytelling."

(Source: Vanity Fair)

Emma Thompson, actress/writer

"I think a gay James Bond would be a bold and exciting move for the franchise. It would be a great opportunity to explore new territory and challenge preconceptions."

(Source: The Independent)

Billy Eichner, comedian/actor

"I'm all for a gay James Bond. It would be a powerful statement and a way to bring greater representation to the screen."

(Source: The Guardian)

Rachel Weisz, actress

"It's time for the Bond franchise to catch up with the times and reflect the diversity of our world. A gay Bond would be a great step forward for representation and inclusion."

(Source: The Hollywood Reporter)

Idris Elba, actor

"I don't think James Bond's sexual orientation is the issue. It's more about finding the right actor to embody the character."

(Source: Harper's Bazaar)

Tom Hardy, actor

"I don't think the character's sexuality is the most interesting thing about him. What matters is the story, and how the character fits into it."

(Source: The Independent)

Olivia Colman, actress

"I'm all for a gay James Bond. It would be a great opportunity for the franchise to evolve and bring greater representation to the screen."

(Source: Entertainment Weekly)

Sam Mendes, director

"If there's one character who can evolve and adapt with the times, it's James Bond. A gay Bond could be a powerful and important step forward."

(Source: Digital Spy)

Javier Bardem, actor

"I think the idea of a gay Bond is intriguing, but ultimately it's up to the filmmakers and producers to decide."

(Source: Variety)

Margaret Cho, comedian/actress

"I think a gay Bond would be fantastic. It would be a great opportunity to challenge stereotypes and bring greater visibility to the queer community."

(Source: Pride)

Neil Patrick Harris, actor

"I'm all for a gay James Bond. It's time for Hollywood to push boundaries and tell stories that reflect the diversity of our world."

(Source: The Advocate)

Taika Waititi, director

"I think it would be a great opportunity to bring greater representation to the screen, and challenge the notion that straight is the default."

(Source: IndieWire)

Zachary Quinto, actor

"I think a gay James Bond could be a really exciting and fresh take on the character. It's time for the franchise to embrace new ideas and perspectives."

(Source: Digital Spy)

David Oyelowo, actor

"I think it would be fantastic to see a gay James Bond. It would be a bold and necessary step forward for the franchise."

(Source: The Independent)

Danny Boyle, director

"I think a gay James Bond would be a great opportunity to explore new territory and bring greater representation to the screen. It's time for the Bond franchise to take a risk and push boundaries."

(Source: Digital Spy)

Rupert Everett, actor

"I think James Bond is such an iconic character that it would be a great opportunity to have a gay actor play him."

(Source: The Guardian)

Lena Waithe, writer/producer

"I don't see any reason why James Bond can't be gay. It's 2023, and it's time for the franchise to evolve and reflect the diversity of our world."

(Source: Digital Spy)

John Boyega, actor

"I think it would be amazing to see a gay Bond. It would be a step forward for representation and a great opportunity for the franchise to evolve."

(Source: NME)

Taron Egerton, actor

"I don't see why James Bond couldn't be gay. He's a fictional character, and the sky's the limit when it comes to who he could be."

(Source: Attitude)

Stephen Fry, actor/writer

"It's time for the Bond franchise to take a risk and push boundaries. A gay Bond could be a step forward for representation and a way to keep the franchise fresh."

(Source: Metro)

The Risks of Making A Gay Bond

While the possibility of a gay James Bond is exciting for many, there are also significant risks involved. The Bond franchise has a massive following, and the idea of a gay Bond could be met with backlash from some fans, conservative groups, and religious organizations.

One of the biggest risks is the potential for a boycott. Many fans have grown up with the Bond franchise and have a deep attachment to the character. If Bond were to be portrayed as gay, some fans may feel that their childhood hero has been co-opted by the LGBTQ+ community. This could lead to a significant drop in ticket sales and a boycott of the film.

Furthermore, conservative groups may also protest the release of a gay Bond. The idea of a gay James Bond could be seen as an attack on traditional values and the nuclear family. This could lead to protests outside of movie theaters and even calls for the film to be banned.

Homophobia could also lead to acts of violence. In some parts of the world, homosexuality is still criminalized, and violence against queer individuals is not uncommon. If a gay Bond were to be portrayed on screen, there is a risk that some individuals may respond with violence or hate crimes.

Moreover, religious organizations may also speak out against the film. Many churches have been known to denounce homosexuality as a sin, and there could be preachers on the pulpit, demanding that theaters not show the film. This could lead to a significant loss of revenue for the studio and damage the reputation of the Bond franchise.

Finally, the risks associated with a gay Bond could be compounded by the financial stakes involved. The Bond franchise is one of the most successful and profitable in the history of cinema. If the film were to fail at the box office, it could lead to significant financial losses for the studio and damage the future of the franchise.

Who Would Play A Gay Bond?

The possibility of a gay James Bond has generated significant excitement and discussion among fans and industry insiders alike. While no official casting announcements have been made, several actors have been mentioned as possible contenders for the role:

IDRIS ELBA

Idris Elba has been a fan favorite for the role for years and has spoken openly about his interest in playing Bond. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Elba said, "I think Idris Elba as James Bond would be awesome. It would be such an honor." While Elba's sexuality has not been publicly discussed, his strong support of the LGBTQ+ community could make him a powerful choice for a gay Bond.

TARON EGERTON

Taron Egerton rose to fame with his portrayal of Elton John in the biopic "Rocketman" and has since been considered for a wide range of roles. In an interview with Attitude, Egerton discussed the possibility of a gay Bond, saying, "I think that would be amazing. I think representation is important, and I'd be all for it." Egerton's openness and support of the LGBTQ+ community could make him a popular choice for the role.

LUKE EVANS

Luke Evans has been open about his sexuality, and his roles in films such as "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Alienist" have demonstrated his range and talent as an actor. In an interview with Gay Times, Evans discussed the possibility of playing Bond, saying, "I think it would be a very interesting thing to do. Bond is such an iconic character, and I'd love to put my own spin on it."

TOM HARDY

Tom Hardy is a versatile actor with a range of critically acclaimed roles to his name. While Hardy has not publicly expressed an interest in playing Bond, his talent and range as an actor make him a strong contender for the role of a gay Bond.

HENRY CAVILL

Henry Cavill is best known for his portrayal of Superman in the DC Extended Universe. While Cavill has not publicly expressed an interest in playing Bond, his talent and range as an actor could make him a strong choice for the role.

CILLIAN MURPHY

Cillian Murphy has demonstrated his range and talent as an actor in films such as "Inception" and the hit BBC series "Peaky Blinders." While Murphy has not publicly expressed an interest in playing Bond, his talent and range as an actor could make him a strong contender for the role of a gay Bond.

HARRY STYLES

Harry Styles has recently transitioned from music to acting, with roles in films such as "Dunkirk" and "Don't Worry Darling." While Styles has not publicly expressed an interest in playing Bond, his rising star power and fan following could make him a popular choice for the role of a gay Bond.

RUPERT FRIEND

Rupert Friend is a British actor best known for his roles in films such as "Pride and Prejudice" and the hit TV series "Homeland." While Friend has not been mentioned as frequently as some other actors, his talent and range as an actor make him a strong contender for the role of a gay Bond.

JACK LOWDEN

Jack Lowden is a Scottish actor best known for his role in the hit TV series "War and Peace." Lowden's rising star power and talent as an actor could make him a strong choice for the role of a gay Bond.

JOHN BOYEGA

John Boyega is a British actor best known for his role in the "Star Wars" franchise. While Boyega has not publicly expressed an interest in playing Bond, his talent and range as an actor could make him a strong contender for the role of a gay Bond.

Gay References In Past Bond Films

Throughout the history of the James Bond franchise, there have been a number of gay references, gay characters, and homoerotic scenes. While these moments have often been subtle, they have contributed to the cultural legacy of James Bond.

One of the earliest examples of a gay reference in a James Bond film can be found in "Diamonds Are Forever," the seventh film in the series. In the film, Bond disguises himself as a gay man in order to infiltrate a hotel. While the scene is played for laughs, it is notable for its depiction of a gay man as a hero rather than a villain.

In the 1974 film "The Man with the Golden Gun," there is a scene where Bond visits a gay bar in search of information. The bar is filled with flamboyant characters, and Bond is accosted by a woman who turns out to be a man in drag. While the scene is played for laughs, it is notable for its depiction of a gay bar, and for its subversion of traditional gender roles.

In addition to these moments, there have been numerous subtle references to homosexuality throughout the James Bond franchise. In "The Living Daylights," the fifteenth film in the franchise, Bond has a close relationship with his ally, Saunders, leading some viewers to interpret their relationship as potentially romantic.

 In "Casino Royale," the twenty-first film in the franchise, there is a scene where Bond is tortured by the villainous Le Chiffre, who strokes Bond's naked body while making suggestive comments.

While these moments suggest a complex and nuanced portrayal of sexuality in the James Bond franchise, there has been only one openly gay character in the series to date. In "Skyfall," the twenty-third film in the franchise, the character of Q is played by Ben Whishaw, who is openly gay. While Q's sexuality is not a major focus of the film, his presence as an openly gay character is notable for its rarity in the Bond franchise.

There are several scenes between Daniel Craig's Bond and Javier Bardem's villainous character, Raoul Silva, that have been interpreted by some as homoerotic.

One of the most notable scenes takes place early in the film, when Bond is brought to Silva's hideout in an abandoned island. As Silva approaches Bond, he caresses his face, saying, "Look what they've done to my island." Bond responds with a cold, sarcastic tone, "It's not yours anymore," as Silva circles around him.

Silva then makes a suggestive comment about the two of them being alone on the island, to which Bond responds, "What makes you think this is my first time?" The camera lingers on the two men's faces as Silva continues to make suggestive comments and touches Bond's face, creating a palpable sexual tension between the characters.

Later in the film, Bond confronts Silva in a deserted building. The two men engage in a tense, almost flirtatious conversation, with Silva making suggestive comments and touching Bond's face. As Silva circles Bond, the camera lingers on the two men's faces, creating a sense of sexual tension that is both palpable and unsettling.

Silva says to Bond, "You're trying to remember your training now. What's the regulation to cover this? Well, first time for everything, yes?" Bond responds in a cold, defensive tone, "What makes you think this is my first time?" Silva leans in, whispers in Bond's ear, and caresses his chest, "Oh, Mr. Bond, I'm just getting started."

These scenes have been analyzed by scholars and fans alike for their potential homoerotic subtext. In his book "Bond, James Bond: The Cultural Politics of 007," author Tony Bennett argues that the relationship between Bond and Silva is "sexualized" and that their interactions have a "gay dimension."

In an interview with The Guardian, director Sam Mendes addressed the homoerotic subtext of the film, saying, "There's a very homoerotic relationship at the center of the movie, between Javier Bardem and Daniel Craig. I think it's been sort of played up a little bit more than it was intended."

Despite Mendes' comments, the homoerotic subtext of the film has been a subject of discussion among fans and scholars, who have analyzed the potential implications of a homoerotic relationship between Bond and a male villain.

Despite these moments, the James Bond franchise has largely been defined by its depiction of a hyper-masculine, heterosexual hero. Bond is known for his womanizing ways, and has been depicted as a powerful, dominant figure in the world of espionage. While the possibility of a gay Bond has been discussed in recent years, it remains to be seen whether the franchise will fully embrace the idea of a gay protagonist.

Despite these moments, the James Bond franchise has largely been defined by its depiction of a hyper-masculine, heterosexual hero. Bond is known for his womanizing ways, and has been depicted as a powerful, dominant figure in the world of espionage. While the possibility of a gay Bond has been discussed in recent years, it remains to be seen whether the franchise will fully embrace the idea of a gay protagonist.

Ultimately, the decision to make the next Bond gay will rest on the shoulders of the filmmakers and producers. It's possible that they might feel that the potential backlash isn't worth the risk, or they may want to stay true to the character's heterosexual origins.

However, the changing landscape of Hollywood may make it easier for a gay Bond to emerge. As actor John Boyega said, "The conversation about representation is being had in a more direct way now, and that can only be a good thing."

At the same time, it's important to note that some people in the LGBT community might not see a gay Bond as true representation. As writer and activist Paris Lees said, "It's not enough to simply cast a gay actor as Bond and call it progress. We need to see stories that reflect the realities of queer lives, not just tokenistic gestures."

A Complete List of Bond Movies

Dr. No (1962)

James Bond investigates the disappearance of a fellow British agent in Jamaica and uncovers a plot by the evil Dr. No to disrupt an American space launch.

Bond played by: Sean Connery

From Russia with Love (1963)

Bond is sent to Istanbul to retrieve a valuable Russian decoding device, but he soon finds himself embroiled in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with the mysterious organization known as SPECTRE.

Bond played by: Sean Connery

Goldfinger (1964)

Bond battles the evil Goldfinger, a wealthy villain who plans to contaminate the United States' gold reserves at Fort Knox.

Bond played by: Sean Connery

Thunderball (1965)

Bond travels to the Bahamas to recover two stolen nuclear warheads, but he must contend with SPECTRE agent Emilio Largo and his team of underwater henchmen.

Bond played by: Sean Connery

You Only Live Twice (1967)

Bond travels to Japan to investigate the disappearance of American and Russian spacecraft and uncovers a plot by the villainous Ernst Stavro Blofeld to start World War III.

Bond played by: Sean Connery

On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)

Bond falls in love with a woman he meets in the Alps, only to discover that she is the daughter of his arch-nemesis Blofeld, who is plotting to destroy the world's agricultural crops.

Bond played by: George Lazenby

Diamonds Are Forever (1971)

Bond investigates a diamond-smuggling operation that leads him to the evil Ernst Stavro Blofeld, who is using the diamonds to create a powerful laser weapon.

Bond played by: Sean Connery

Live and Let Die (1973)

Bond is sent to investigate the mysterious deaths of three MI6 agents and uncovers a plot by drug lord Mr. Big to distribute heroin for free and then charge exorbitant prices once people are addicted.

Bond played by: Roger Moore

The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)

Bond is tasked with retrieving a powerful solar energy device from the hands of the notorious assassin Francisco Scaramanga, also known as "The Man with the Golden Gun."

Bond played by: Roger Moore

The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)

Bond teams up with KGB agent Anya Amasova to recover a stolen nuclear submarine and stop the evil Karl Stromberg from destroying the world.

Bond played by: Roger Moore

Moonraker (1979)

Bond investigates the theft of a space shuttle and uncovers a plot by the wealthy industrialist Hugo Drax to destroy humanity and repopulate the Earth with a genetically superior race.

Bond played by: Roger Moore

For Your Eyes Only (1981)

Bond is sent to retrieve a stolen communication device and stop the villainous Kristatos from obtaining a powerful weapon system.

Bond played by: Roger Moore

Octopussy (1983)

Bond is tasked with investigating a Soviet general who is using a jewel smuggler as a cover for his plot to detonate a nuclear bomb in West Germany.

Bond played by: Roger Moore

A View to a Kill (1985)

Bond investigates the villainous Max Zorin, who is attempting to destroy Silicon Valley with a massive earthquake in order to corner the microchip market.

Bond played by: Roger Moore

The Living Daylights (1987)

Bond is tasked with protecting a Soviet defector who has important information about an international arms deal, but he soon finds himself embroiled in a plot to assassinate the defector.

Bond played by: Timothy Dalton

Licence to Kill (1989)

Bond goes rogue after his friend Felix Leiter is brutally attacked and left for dead by drug lord Franz Sanchez. Bond seeks revenge and to stop Sanchez's drug smuggling operation.

Bond played by: Timothy Dalton

GoldenEye (1995)

Bond is back and teams up with Russian computer programmer Natalya Simonova to stop former MI6 agent Alec Trevelyan, who has stolen a powerful satellite weapon and plans to destroy London.

Bond played by: Pierce Brosnan

Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)

Bond is sent to investigate media mogul Elliot Carver, who is using his power and influence to incite a war between China and the United Kingdom for exclusive coverage.

Bond played by: Pierce Brosnan

The World Is Not Enough (1999)

Bond is tasked with protecting oil heiress Elektra King and uncovers a plot by terrorist Renard to sabotage a new pipeline and cause a nuclear explosion.

Bond played by: Pierce Brosnan

Die Another Day (2002)

Bond is captured and tortured by North Korean agents but is later released in exchange for a British double agent. Bond teams up with NSA agent Jinx Johnson to stop diamond mogul Gustav Graves from using a space weapon to destroy the Korean Demilitarized Zone.

Bond played by: Pierce Brosnan

Casino Royale (2006)

Bond's first mission as a "00" agent takes him to a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro where he tries to stop terrorist financier Le Chiffre from winning back his clients' money.

Bond played by: Daniel Craig

Quantum of Solace (2008)

Bond seeks revenge for the death of his lover Vesper Lynd and uncovers a powerful organization known as Quantum, which is involved in global conspiracy and corruption.

Bond played by: Daniel Craig

Skyfall (2012)

Bond returns to duty after MI6 is attacked and M's past comes back to haunt her. Bond must stop the villainous Raoul Silva from destroying MI6 and killing M.

Bond played by: Daniel Craig

Spectre (2015)

Bond goes rogue to uncover the sinister organization known as Spectre and uncovers a connection to his past.

Bond played by: Daniel Craig

No Time to Die (2021)

Bond comes out of retirement to stop a new villain who has access to dangerous technology. Along the way, Bond must confront his past and make difficult choices.

Bond played by: Daniel Craig.