A few weeks ago, we shared some news concerning the latest James Bond film. In that story, we reported that actress Naomie Harris was in negotiations to join the cast of the still untitled Bond 23. Speculation was that she’d play a “Bond girl” in the latest outing – but that was only half correct.
UK paper The Daily Mail says Harris is up for the role of a more important Bond character – that of Miss Moneypenny, the flirty assistant to Bond’s boss, M. Bond 23 will mark the return of the character to the series – she hasn’t been seen in a Bond film since 2002’s Die Another Day.
Harris, who became almost instantly recognizable after appearing in Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later and several of the Pirates of the Caribbean films, has not officially taken on the part yet, but according to sources close to the film, negotiations have reached the final stages. If those negotiations work out, she’ll join Daniel Craig, Ralph Fiennes, and Javier Bardem in the cast of the newest film – which almost didn’t happen thanks to MGM’s financial woes.
Should the actress eventually take on the part, she’ll be trying to fill some very large shoes. Lois Maxwell was the first – and longest running – Moneypenny. The actress, who most fans think of when the character is mentioned, played the part from Dr. No through 1985’s A View to a Kill.
All in all, we like this potential casting – Harris has both the exotic looks and acting chops to be a Bond foil. Landing the role of Moneypenny may not be quite as glamorous as being a traditional Bond girl, but it’s a smart move on the actress’ part – Moneypenny will undoubtedly be back for sequels.
