When thinking of James Bond, the suave spy known for his daring adventures, we can’t forget the iconic Bond girls who added excitement to each mission. From unforgettable characters to those who didn’t quite make the cut, this ranking showcases the best Bond girls and their chemistry with 007. Grab a martini, shaken, not stirred, and see if your favorite tops our ultimate Bond Girl showdown!
#40 Corinne Dufour Played by: Corinne Cléry
In the action-packed movie “Moonraker,” Bond employs seductive interrogation tactics to establish a romantic connection with Corinne. As their relationship develops, Corinne unwittingly reveals information about her criminal boss’ covert project. Tragically, her association with Bond leads to her becoming a victim of her employer’s ruthless punishment, as she is devoured by dogs. Bond’s nonchalant response to such problematic encounters leaves us in awe, wondering how he continues without a hint of remorse. “Moonraker” epitomizes the collision of romance and danger in true Bond style. Yet, amidst all the seduction and passion, the movie takes a dark turn with Corinne’s unforgettable fate.
#39 Magda Played by: Kristina Wayborn
#38 Stacey Sutton Played by: Tanya Roberts
#37 Jill Masterson Played by: Shirley Eaton
#36 Mary Goodnight Played by: Britt Ekland
#35 Strawberry Fields Played by: Gemma Arterton
Gemma Arterton delivers a standout performance as Strawberry Fields in “Quantum of Solace,” imprinting her character with a magnetic presence that leaves a lasting impact on the Bond series. Playing a British Secret Service agent stationed in Bolivia, Fields exudes determination and professionalism, striving to earn respect in a predominantly male environment. Initially at odds with James Bond, portrayed by Daniel Craig, their relationship evolves as Fields finds herself drawn to Bond’s suave charisma. Despite her attempts to impede Bond’s mission, she becomes embroiled in a whirlwind romance with the spy. While Gemma Arterton has voiced her thoughts on her role, highlighting the embedded sexism in the portrayal of Bond women.
#34 Nancy Played by: Catherine Schell
#33 Countess Lisl Von Schlaf Played by: Cassandra Harris
#32 Tilly Masterson Played by: Tania Mallet
#31 Kara Milovy Played by: Maryam D’Abo
#30 Manuela Played by: Emily Bolton
#29 Christmas Jones Played by: Denise Richards
#28 Andrea Anders Played by: Maud Adams
Maud Adams delivers a captivating performance as Andrea Anders in “The Man With the Golden Gun,” trapped in the grasp of assassin Francisco Scaramanga. Seeking liberation, she boldly propositions 007 to rid her of Scaramanga and secure her freedom. Their encounter sparks a connection, but tragedy strikes when Scaramanga discovers their affair and mercilessly ends her life. It’s a tragic demise indeed.
While Adams earned a title role in “Octopussy,” her portrayal of Andrea Anders alongside Britt Ekland remains notable yet somewhat overlooked in comparison.
#27 Ruby Bartlett Played by: Angela Scoular
Angela Scoular exudes sizzling allure in her portrayal of Ruby Bartlett in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” Their steamy encounter, marked by Ruby writing her room number on Bond’s thigh, remains a memorable Bond moment. Ruby’s assertive nature adds intrigue, even if her attempt at flirtation by seductively eating a chicken leg falls flat. This Bond film takes some unusual turns, especially with Ruby’s intense poultry allergy.
Bond’s infiltration of the clinic where she seeks treatment leads to an unconventional lovemaking location. While not the most romantic setting, it wouldn’t be a Bond movie without seduction and passion.
#26 Lupe Lamora Played by: Talisa Soto
#25 Madeleine Swann Played by: Léa Seydoux
In “Spectre,” Léa Seydoux adds depth to the role of Dr. Swann, blending various Bond Girl traits such as being the daughter of a crime boss, a skilled medic, and a pacifist. While not fitting the typical mold of a female action hero, she possesses her own strength and resilience. Seydoux’s portrayal shines, but the film’s shortcomings leave us craving more of her character’s captivating backstory. Unfortunately, the chemistry between her and Bond lacks the spark needed to ignite the screen.
Despite her capabilities, Dr. Swann ultimately falls into the damsel-in-distress trope, leaving us yearning for a more empowering arc for this intriguing Bond Gi
#24 Miranda Frost Played by: Rosamund Pike
In “Die Another Day,” Rosamund Pike delivers a standout performance as Miranda Frost, elevating her character to one of the movie’s highlights. As a double-crossing and fiercely competitive MI6 agent, Frost lives up to her icy namesake. Pike’s portrayal of the beautiful yet deadly femme fatale is impeccable, making her the shining gem in an otherwise criticized film. While “Die Another Day” may fall short for many, Rosamund Pike’s performance makes it worth watching.
Throughout the film, Frost’s deceitful actions lead to her demise, fittingly meeting her end by being stabbed. While Frost stands out among Bond girls, there are numerous other memorable characters in the Bond universe worth exploring.
#23 Aki Played by: Akiko Wakabayashi
#22 Solitaire Played by: Jane Seymour
Solitaire, portrayed by Jane Seymour in “Live and Let Die,” stands out as a mystical character seldom seen in the Bond franchise. This clairvoyant Bond girl enchants audiences with her divine Tarot card readings and a wardrobe that turns heads. While her character leans more towards style over substance, there’s an undeniable coolness to her. However, the script didn’t provide her much depth to work with, preventing her from being completely memorable.
With a touch more depth to her character, Solitaire could have soared to even greater heights. Nonetheless, her uniqueness ensures she remains a memorable addition to the Bond universe.
#21 Holly Goodhead Played by: Lois Chiles
Lois Chiles shines as Holly in “Moonraker,” bringing intelligence and charm to her role and standing out as one of the more notable Bond Girls. Initially puzzling to 007, their space mission unveils her capabilities as a CIA agent investigating Drax Industries. A refreshing departure from typical Bond girl portrayals, Holly proves herself to be on par with Bond, effectively utilizing her skills during the space mission. She takes charge in piloting the space shuttle, impressing audiences with her expertise.
Fans universally appreciated Holly for being a rare example of a Bond Girl with a significant and complementary role to 007’s, further cementing her status as a beloved character in the Bond franchise.
#20 Pam Bouvier Played by: Carey Lowell
Carey Lowell’s portrayal of Pam Bouvier in “Licence to Kill” injects a breath of fresh air into the world of Bond Girls. From the moment she pulls a witty gun trick on 007, she captivates audiences with her charm and quick wit. Pam defies the stereotype of the emotionless action heroine; she’s a fiery Floridian with a pixie cut, a former Army pilot, and a formidable force in a bar fight.
It’s no wonder Bond is drawn to her irresistible allure. With Pam around, it’s clear why Bond chose her in the end.
#19 Lucia Sciarra Played by: Monica Bellucci
Monica Bellucci’s portrayal of Lucia in “Spectre” garnered significant attention as the franchise’s oldest Bond Girl, but her age doesn’t define her appeal. Mysterious and witty, Lucia appears to be on par with Bond himself. Despite a moment of Bond saving her from death, she doesn’t play the role of a damsel in distress. While there’s a focus on her age, Bellucci’s portrayal ensures that Lucia transcends stereotypes.
As a mature and complex Bond Girl, Lucia adds a refreshing twist to the usual formula, leaving a lasting impression on viewers with her depth and intrigue.
#18 Domino Derval Played by: Claudine Auger
Claudine Auger’s portrayal of Domino Derval in “Thunderball” deserves a warm welcome indeed. This French beauty, voiced by Nikki van der Zyl to mitigate her thick accent, embodies the ultimate Bond Girl package: intelligence, wit, courage, and undeniable beauty. When she unravels the truth about her brother’s disappearance, vengeance becomes her driving force. Equipped with a harpoon and a penchant for scuba adventures, she proves to be the perfect match for 007. However, even during her underwater escapades, instead of conventional scuba gear, she opts for a tiny bikini.
While many Bond girls of the era were primarily viewed as eye candy, Domino’s character stands out for her depth and agency. Despite wishing for more screen time, she undeniably leaves her mark on the Bond universe with her memorable portrayal.
#17 Kissy Suzuki Played by: Mie Hama
In “You Only Live Twice,” James Bond embarks on a daring mission to the mysterious Japanese islands. To blend in and avoid suspicion, 007 becomes entangled in a fake marriage, leading to unexpected twists and turns. The courageous Kissy takes on the role of Bond’s “fake” wife, playing a pivotal role in helping him navigate through danger. Unlike many Bond girls, Kissy doesn’t require rescue during the movie.
Kissy stands out for her strong, independent character, exceeding the expectations of the plan and forming an emotional connection with 007 that evolves into something more. Not too shabby for a Bond girl!
#16 May Day Played by: Grace Jones
Grace Jones electrifies the screen as May Day in “A View to a Kill.” As the fierce companion, lover, and bodyguard to the psychopathic billionaire Max Zorin, she possesses iconic fashion looks and deadly skills. However, her loyalty doesn’t remain with Zorin for long. Why? Well, as you might have guessed, while she initially escapes Bond by jumping from the Eiffel Tower, later in the film, they become intimate.
It’s undeniable that Bond has a knack for turning any woman, even his enemies, into his lovers.
#15 Fiona Volpe Played by: Luciana Paluzzi
Luciana Paluzzi shines as Fiona Volpe in “Thunderball,” where sex and espionage collide in classic Connery-era Bond style. As an assassin for SPECTRE, Fiona seduces a NATO pilot to aid in stealing atomic bombs. Despite Bond’s awareness of her affiliation with SPECTRE, he still decides to charm her. After their intimate encounter, Bond delivers the classic “this was business, not pleasure” line, ending their affair.
Despite Bond’s manipulations, Fiona remains a formidable and memorable Bond girl. Their undeniable chemistry adds depth to her character, making her a standout in the Bond universe.
#14 Anya Amasova Played by: Barbara Bach
Barbara Bach shines as Anya, also known as Agent XXX, in “The Spy Who Loved Me,” bringing a breath of fresh air to the Bond franchise, although not all fans may agree. As Russia’s top-notch superspy, she initially holds a vendetta against Bond, but love eventually finds its way into the picture. While her transformation from foe to love interest may be somewhat predictable, Anya proves she’s no ordinary damsel.
With her intelligence and stealth, Anya showcases her competence in the field. While some argue she doesn’t fully live up to her potential, she still manages to outshine many of Bond’s past encounters.
#13 Elektra King Played by: Sophie Marceau
Sophie Marceau takes on the role of the devious Elektra in “The World Is Not Enough,” defying expectations as a Bond girl turned ultimate Bond villain. Unlike others who falter after falling for 007’s charms, Elektra masterfully deceives and utilizes him to her advantage. In contrast to the typical “world destruction” trope, Elektra’s mission is grounded and believable, rendering her one of the most realistic antagonists in the franchise.
Manipulating and outwitting the iconic MI6 agent takes a special kind of woman, and Elektra does so with flair. Despite being underrated and underappreciated, she shines in one of the most overlooked Bond films, leaving a lasting impression as one of the franchise’s most memorable villains.
#12 Sylvia Trench Played by: Eunice Gayson
Eunice Gayson, the inaugural Bond Girl in “Dr. No” and “From Russia With Love,” set the standard for the iconic female companions of the franchise. As Sylvia, she portrayed a confident and alluring figure, making a significant impression on Sean Connery’s 007. Breaking the mold of typical love interests, she showcased her skills in golfing, gambling, and her adventurous spirit.
While her voice was dubbed by Nikki van der Zyl, a common practice for Bond girlfriends of that era, her true voice can be heard in the original trailers, leaving a mark of authenticity behind. After all, she was the first true Bond girl.
#11 Jinx Johnson Played by: Halle Berry
In the thrilling “Die Another Day,” Halle Berry made history as the first major African-American Bond girl since May Day in “A View to a Kill.” Jinx epitomizes the Bond girl triad, showcasing toughness, fashion-forward flair, and undeniable capability. However, in a bold attempt to portray her as Bond’s equal, some feel that the writers may have leaned too heavily into the fun and flirty angle, potentially sidelining her individuality.
The controversy surrounding Jinx’s character could stem from various factors, including dialogue choices or the challenging portrayal of a woman in a pivotal role like a CIA agent. Nevertheless, this groundbreaking portrayal sparked passionate debates among fans, highlighting the impact of representation and portrayal in the Bond franchise.
#10 Honey Ryder Played by: Ursula Andress
Ursula Andress, with some parts voiced by Nikki van der Zyl, established the archetype for Bond Girls as Honey Ryder in “Dr. No.” Her iconic white bikini moment is likely the first image that comes to mind when thinking of Bond Girls. Although her character may lack depth in the script, Honey demonstrates a fierce side and a thirst for revenge. While she may appear shy around Bond, she proves to have more bite than meets the eye.
While Honey Ryder serves as a solid start for the franchise’s portrayal of women, it’s her unforgettable bikini scene that remains etched in our memories, symbolizing her enduring impact on the Bond universe.
#9 Camille Montes Played by: Olga Kurylenko
Olga Kurylenko’s portrayal of Camille in “Quantum of Solace” breaks the mold of typical Bond girls. Her quest for revenge intertwines with 007’s mission, forging an unlikely alliance. Unlike her predecessors, Camille’s vendetta receives proper attention in the film, and she stands out as the first major Bond girl who doesn’t succumb to Bond’s charms or engage in any intimacy with him. In many ways, she shares similarities with Bond himself – independent, determined, and self-reliant.
Camille’s journey isn’t overshadowed by Bond’s, and she proves to be more than just his sidekick. Her portrayal adds depth and complexity to the film, earning “Quantum of Solace” a high ranking on our list of Bond movies.
#8 Natalya Simonova Played by: Izabella Scorupco
Natalya Fyodorovna Simonova, brought to life by Izabella Scorupco in “GoldenEye,” is a standout character in the Bond franchise. As a Level 2 programmer, she serves as the tech genius of the film, but she also possesses a charming naivete. Despite the deception of characters like Boris, portrayed brilliantly by Alan Cumming, Natalya maintains her trusting nature, seeing the best in people.
Natalya’s character is well-liked for her crucial role in assisting Bond throughout his mission with her computer programming skills, showcasing her intelligence and resourcefulness. She presents a more realistic portrayal compared to traditional Bond girls and shares good chemistry with Bond. In a franchise known for its Bond girls, Natalya stands out as a standout heroine, adding depth and intrigue to “GoldenEye.”
#7 Pussy Galore Played by: Honor Blackman
Honor Blackman’s portrayal of Pussy Galore in “Goldfinger” has solidified her legendary status, not solely due to her eyebrow-raising name. Galore is a captivating character who embodies both sensuality and strength, notably leading her own female pilot team known as the Flying Circus. While certain aspects of the film may feel dated, particularly scenes involving intimacy and consent that would not be acceptable by today’s standards, Galore remains an iconic Bond girl who left a lasting impact on the franchise.
In the ever-evolving realm of James Bond, Pussy Galore remains a towering figure, celebrated for her pioneering and unforgettable character. Yet, there are still more iconic Bond Girls awaiting discovery!
#6 Octopussy Played by: Maud Adams
Maud Adams shines as Octopussy in the film bearing her character’s name. She portrays a wealthy jewel smuggler with a unique moniker, stemming from her father’s fascination with octopi. Octopussy heads an intriguing Octopus Cult of formidable women, initially aligned with the villains for financial gain. However, upon uncovering their nefarious plans, she swiftly switches sides to aid Bond in thwarting their evil plot. Their flirtatious exchanges culminate in a delightfully quirky conclusion.
While “Octopussy” received mixed reviews, Maud Adams’ portrayal of the titular character left a lasting impression, cementing her status as one of the few Bond girl actors to appear in multiple roles.
#5 Tatiana Romanova Played by: Daniela Bianchi
Tatiana Romanova emerges as the iconic Bond girl who captured hearts in the 1963 classic “From Russia with Love.” A former ballerina stationed at the Soviet Embassy in Istanbul, Tatiana’s involvement in a perilous mission against 007 rendered her a memorable character. Unbeknownst to her, she was unwittingly entangled in SPECTRE’s nefarious scheme to discredit the British Secret Service. Daniela Bianchi’s portrayal added depth to Tatiana, endearing her to Bond girl enthusiasts.
Tatiana proved to be more than just a pretty face, evolving into a cherished figure in the captivating world of James Bond. And, of course, she also became his love interest, adding layers of complexity to their entwined narrative.
#4 Tracy Bond Played by: Diana Rigg
In “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” James Bond defies his iconic bachelor persona by marrying for the first and only time in the film series. His usual womanizing demeanor fades as he falls profoundly in love with Tracy. However, their wedding day takes a tragic turn when they are ambushed by Blofeld and his henchwoman, resulting in Tracy’s death. Diana Rigg’s portrayal of Tracy leaves an indelible mark on the franchise, reshaping Bond’s character and stirring his emotions.
Though her time in Bond’s world is tragically brief, Tracy remains the standard by which all Bond girls are measured, her impact enduring long after her departure.
#3 Xenia Onatopp Played by: Famke Janssen
Portrayed by the striking Famke Janssen, Xenia is the Soviet assassin who leaves a lasting impression in “GoldenEye.” Her lethal signature move, suffocating men with her powerful thighs, leaves little doubt about her deadly capabilities. Beyond the screen, Janssen’s portrayal propelled her into the spotlight, garnering both praise and scrutiny from the media. This intense experience prompted her to take a step back from the limelight, avoiding high-profile relationships and eschewing social media.
As one of the memorable secondary villains, Xenia Onatopp’s over-the-top and bizarre persona adds a much-needed touch of eccentricity to the world of Bond girls, ensuring her place in Bond lore.
#2 Wai Lin Played by: Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh’s portrayal of Wai Lin in “Tomorrow Never Dies” was groundbreaking, showcasing her as more than just a male fantasy. She embodies a fierce and independent espionage agent with her own agenda. As a smart and savvy Chinese spy, Wai Lin impresses with her jaw-dropping fight skills, rivaling even Bond himself. While the franchise has often leaned on the “damsel in distress” trope, Wai Lin spends most of the film proving she belongs at the forefront, not in the background.
As the first ethnic Chinese Bond girl, Wai Lin received critical acclaim and is celebrated as one of the series’ finest, breaking barriers and leaving an enduring legacy in the Bond universe.
#1 Vesper Lynd Played by: Eva Green
Eva Green’s portrayal of Vesper Lynd in “Casino Royale” marks a pivotal moment for Bond, etching an indelible imprint on his heart. From their initial encounter, Vesper exhibits a keen intellect, always one step ahead, until love takes them both by surprise. Green’s performance breathes life into Vesper, striking a perfect balance of wit, strength, and vulnerability. The palpable chemistry between Green and Daniel Craig elevates Vesper to one of the franchise’s most memorable Bond girl performances.
Vesper’s enduring impact on Bond is profound; her betrayal remains haunting and shapes him into the iconic 007 we know today. For James Bond, his journey truly begins with Vesper, cementing her as an indispensable part of his narrative.
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