When we think of the dashing secret agent known for saving the day, we recall the iconic female agents who added excitement to his missions. From memorable characters to those who might have been overlooked, join us in ranking the top female agents and their rapport with the leading spy.
Grab a martini, shaken, not stirred, and discover if your favorite secured a top spot in our Bond Girl showdown!
40. Corinne Dufour Played by: Corinne Cléry
In “Moonraker,” Bond’s seductive tactics help him get vital information from Corinne. Their romance leads to her revealing her criminal boss’ secret project, but tragically, Corinne falls victim to her employer’s brutal punishment, meeting a gruesome end.
Bond’s unflinching attitude towards such encounters leaves us questioning how he can carry on without remorse. This film, blending romance and danger in true Bond style, takes a dark turn with Corinne’s unforgettable fate.
39. Magda Played by: Kristina Wayborn
In “Octopussy,” Kristina Wayborn’s character, Magda, is a captivating henchwoman. Despite her initial role of seducing and betraying Bond, her unwavering loyalty to Octopussy, the film’s leader, sets her apart.
Magda’s confidence and reserved demeanor add depth to her character. Even after a passionate night with Bond, her loyalty to Octopussy remains steadfast, highlighting that Bond’s charms can’t sway this Bond girl.
38. Stacey Sutton Played by: Tanya Roberts
In “A View to a Kill,” Stacey Sutton is an oil heiress seeking revenge against Max Zorin. Although overshadowed by May Day, she reluctantly partners with Bond to take down their common enemy.
Stacey’s character lacks depth and features breathy line deliveries, but Tanya Roberts adds a certain charm that deserves recognition.
Despite some critics labeling her as one of the weaker Bond Girls, we should give credit to the former Charlie’s Angels actress for her performance.
37. Jill Masterson Played by: Shirley Eaton
In “Goldfinger,” Shirley Eaton shines as Jill Masterson, despite her brief appearance. Fans were captivated by the chemistry between her and Bond. Her memorable death, suffocated by gold paint, ended any hopes of her becoming a recurring Bond Girl, though fans would have loved to see more of her.
36. Mary Goodnight Played by: Britt Ekland
Britt Ekland portrays Mary Goodnight in “The Man with the Golden Gun,” a Bond Girl known for her spirited but somewhat clumsy character.
In later years, Ekland shared her candid thoughts about the Bond franchise, acknowledging the changing social attitudes towards Bond Girls. Nevertheless, she reminisced about the enjoyable aspects of being sexy and spending days in a bikini on set.
35. Strawberry Fields Played by: Gemma Arterton
Gemma Arterton’s performance as Strawberry Fields in “Quantum of Solace” is memorable, adding a magnetic presence to the Bond series. As a British Secret Service agent in Bolivia, Fields is determined to be taken seriously in a male-dominated world.
Her initially frosty encounter with James Bond turns into a passionate romance. Arterton has also criticized the way Bond women are portrayed, pointing out embedded sexism in the franchise.
34. Nancy Played by: Catherine Schell
In “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” Nancy appears as a fellow allergy-sufferer and co-patient. While not as memorable as Ruby Bartlett, she manages to seduce an undercover Bond.
Her quirky character traits, including an obsession with her potato allergy, make her a unique Bond girl, and while not the worst, her role is somewhat questionable.
Nancy’s determination and unconventional approach to her goals stand out in the film. If you’re curious about the worst Bond girl, you’ll need to keep reading to find out.
33. Countess Lisl Von Schlaf Played by: Cassandra Harris
In the world of James Bond, each Bond Girl makes a unique impact. Countess Lisl von Schlaf, portrayed by Cassandra Harris in “For Your Eyes Only,” adds sophistication to the movie.
She’s the mistress of the cunning smuggler Milos Columbo, offering a refreshing change in a film where Bond faces unusual encounters with younger women.
Lisl’s playful seduction serves an intelligence mission, but her fate takes a tragic turn in a dune buggy incident as she becomes entangled in Bond and Columbo’s rivalry.
32. Tilly Masterson Played by: Tania Mallet
Tania Mallet shines as Tilly Masterson in “Goldfinger.” Seeking revenge for her sister’s death, she aims to take down Goldfinger but meets an unfortunate end from Oddjob’s deadly bowler hat. Her quest for justice adds a compelling twist to the plot, making “Goldfinger” a memorable Bond film.
31. Kara Milovy Played by: Maryam D’Abo
In “The Living Daylights,” Maryam D’Abo plays Kara, a character who, as a love interest for Bond, lacks competence and significant plot impact. While not considered terrible, she tends to be forgotten as one of the less memorable Bond girls. For many Bond fans, Maryam D’Abo’s character is not one they’d like to see again.
30. Manuela Played by: Emily Bolton
Manuela, played by Emily Bolton, is an MI6 operative and Bond’s ally in “Moonraker.” She’s a seductive character from Rio who catches 007’s attention and even surprises him with her skills, like outpacing him in the bustling streets of Brazil and mixing the perfect martini.
While she’s not a standout Bond girl, she has a memorable scene where she narrowly escapes from Jaws, which is the most notable part of her character.
29. Christmas Jones Played by: Denise Richards
Denise Richards played Dr. Christmas Jones in “The World Is Not Enough,” a Bond Girl who was both intelligent and beautiful. She faced harsh criticism for her portrayal, particularly regarding oversexualization.
The Bond series has historically struggled to depict academically-minded women accurately.
Despite not being the most iconic Bond Girl, Dr. Jones brought a fresh perspective and gave her all to the franchise.
28. Andrea Anders Played by: Maud Adams
Maud Adams portrays Andrea Anders in “The Man with the Golden Gun.” She’s trapped with the assassin Scaramanga and approaches 007 with a proposal for help.
Their encounter sparks a connection, but tragedy strikes as Scaramanga discovers their affair and kills her. A tragic end for her.
Despite earning a title role in “Octopussy,” Maud Adams’ part as Andrea Anders, alongside Britt Ekland, is noteworthy but often overlooked.
27. Ruby Bartlett Played by: Angela Scoular
Angela Scoular’s portrayal of Ruby Bartlett in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” adds sizzling allure to the film. Their steamy encounter, including Ruby writing her room number on Bond’s thigh, remains a memorable Bond moment.
Ruby’s assertive nature adds intrigue, despite her quirky attempt at seductively eating a chicken leg due to her intense poultry allergy. In a Bond film filled with peculiar elements, it’s worth noting the unconventional romantic setting in a clinic.
Bond movies wouldn’t be the same without their signature blend of seduction and love-making.
26. Lupe Lamora Played by: Talisa Soto
Talisa Soto shines as Lupe Lamora in “Licence to Kill.” She plays a complex character torn between her drug lord boyfriend and James Bond. Despite enduring abuse, Lupe’s search for genuine love adds depth to her character.
While her performance had its moments, they were too rare, making her memorable but not a favorite Bond girl.
25. Madeleine Swann Played by: Léa Seydoux
Léa Seydoux’s Dr. Swann in “Spectre” is a Bond Girl with a unique blend of traits, being a crime boss’s daughter, a skilled medic, and a pacifist. While she’s not the traditional action hero, her strength and resilience shine through.
Seydoux’s performance impresses, but the film’s limitations leave us wanting more of her character’s intriguing backstory.
However, the chemistry between her and Bond falls short of expectations, and she ends up falling into the damsel-in-distress trope, which is disappointing for such a capable character.
24. Miranda Frost Played by: Rosamund Pike
Rosamund Pike’s portrayal of Miranda Frost in “Die Another Day” is a highlight of the film. As a double-crossing and competitive MI6 agent, Frost is a deadly and captivating character, and Pike’s performance stands out in the movie.
While “Die Another Day” has its criticisms, Rosamund Pike’s role makes it worth watching. Throughout the film, Frost’s backstabbing actions lead to her fittingly being stabbed.
It’s a Bond movie you shouldn’t miss, but how does she compare to other memorable Bond girls?
23. Aki Played by: Akiko Wakabayashi
In “You Only Live Twice,” Aki, played by Akiko Wakabayashi, was set to be the film’s leading Bond Girl until she met a deadly SPECTRE assassin.
Despite her untimely demise, Aki made a lasting impression, showcasing her dedication to the mission and her skills as an assassin and driver. Her potential as an ideal companion to Bond adds to her character’s allure, making her a memorable figure in the Bond universe.
22. Solitaire Played by: Jane Seymour
Solitaire, portrayed by Jane Seymour in “Live and Let Die,” is a mystical Bond character, a rarity in the franchise. Her clairvoyant abilities, divine Tarot card readings, and stylish wardrobe make her captivating.
While she exudes coolness, the script limits her character’s depth, preventing her from being entirely memorable. With a bit more substance, she could have reached greater heights, but her uniqueness still secures her a place in the Bond universe.
21. Holly Goodhead Played by: Lois Chiles
Lois Chiles shines as Holly in “Moonraker,” a Bond Girl who stands out for her intelligence and charm. She’s a CIA agent investigating Drax Industries and plays a crucial role in the space mission alongside 007.
Holly’s character is a refreshing departure from the typical Bond Girl, as she is on par with Bond and demonstrates her skills effectively in the mission, even taking the lead in piloting the space shuttle.
Fans appreciated her as a unique Bond Girl with a significant role that complements 007.
20. Pam Bouvier Played by: Carey Lowell
Carey Lowell’s Pam Bouvier in “Licence to Kill” is a refreshing Bond Girl. Her charm and quick wit, along with a clever gun trick on 007, make her stand out.
Pam is not the typical emotionless action heroine; she’s a fiery Floridian, a former Army pilot, and a formidable force in a bar fight. Bond’s choice of her in the end is no surprise, given Pam’s irresistible allure.
19. Lucia Sciarra Played by: Monica Bellucci
Monica Bellucci’s Lucia in “Spectre” drew attention as the franchise’s oldest Bond Girl, but her appeal goes beyond her age. She’s a mysterious and witty character, on par with Bond himself.
Despite a moment where Bond rescues her, she’s not a typical damsel in distress. While age may overshadow her depth, Bellucci’s performance shows that Lucia is more than a stereotype.
As a mature and complex Bond Girl, Lucia adds a refreshing twist to the formula and leaves a lasting impression on viewers.
18. Domino Derval Played by: Claudine Auger
Claudine Auger’s Domino Derval in “Thunderball” is the epitome of a Bond Girl, combining intelligence, wit, courage, and undeniable beauty.
When seeking vengeance for her brother’s disappearance, she’s armed with a harpoon and a taste for scuba adventures, making her a perfect match for 007.
Despite her limited screen time, she stands out in the Bond world.
17. Kissy Suzuki Played by: Mie Hama
In “You Only Live Twice,” James Bond embarks on a daring mission in the Japanese islands and enters into a fake marriage to maintain his cover.
The brave Kissy, his “fake” wife, stands out among Bond girls for her self-sufficiency and ability to navigate danger without needing rescue.
Her character goes beyond the initial plan, forming an emotional connection with 007, making her a remarkable and independent Bond girl.
16. May Day Played by: Grace Jones
Grace Jones shines as May Day in “A View to a Kill.” She’s the fierce companion, lover, and bodyguard of the billionaire Max Zorin, with iconic fashion and deadly skills.
She transitions from being Zorin’s lover to another side. Bond’s ability to turn women from enemies to lovers is a recurring theme in the series.
15. Fiona Volpe Played by: Luciana Paluzzi
Luciana Paluzzi shines as Fiona Volpe in “Thunderball,” where sex and espionage blend in classic Bond style. As a SPECTRE assassin, Fiona seduces a NATO pilot to aid in stealing atomic bombs.
Bond recognizes her affiliation with SPECTRE but still uses his charm on her. Their undeniable chemistry makes Fiona a memorable Bond girl, even though Bond uses her for both protection and intimacy.
14. Anya Amasova Played by: Barbara Bach
Barbara Bach shines as Anya, aka Agent XXX, in “The Spy Who Loved Me.” She’s a Bond Girl who brings a breath of fresh air to the franchise, even if opinions vary.
Starting as Russia’s top superspy with a vendetta against Bond, love eventually enters the picture. While her transition from foe to love interest may be somewhat predictable, Anya proves she’s no ordinary damsel.
With her intelligence and stealth, she showcases her competence in the field. Despite potential untapped, she still outshines Bond’s past encounters.
13. Elektra King Played by: Sophie Marceau
Sophie Marceau portrays the devious Elektra King in “The World Is Not Enough,” an unexpected Bond villain. Unlike typical Bond girls, Elektra masterfully deceives and uses 007 to her advantage.
Her mission is grounded and believable, setting her apart as one of the franchise’s most realistic antagonists. Manipulating and outsmarting Bond takes a special kind of character, and Elektra does it with flair.
She’s an underrated and underappreciated standout in one of the most overlooked Bond films.
12. Sylvia Trench Played by: Eunice Gayson
Eunice Gayson, the original Bond Girl in “Dr. No” and “From Russia With Love,” set the standard for the franchise’s iconic female companions. Sylvia, her character, was a confident and alluring figure who made a significant impression on Sean Connery’s 007.
She stood out from typical love interests by showcasing her golfing skills, gambling, and adventurous spirit. While her voice was dubbed, her authentic voice can be heard in the original trailers, as she was the very first Bond girl.
11. Jinx Johnson Played by: Halle Berry
Halle Berry made history as the first major African-American Bond girl since May Day in “A View to a Kill” in “Die Another Day.” Her character, Jinx, embodies the Bond girl triad, featuring toughness, fashion-forward flair, and undeniable capability.
However, some feel that the writers may have gone too far in making her Bond’s equal, potentially overshadowing her individuality.
The controversy around Jinx’s portrayal could stem from the dialogue or the challenging role of a woman in a pivotal position like a CIA agent, sparking passionate debates among fans.
10. Honey Ryder Played by: Ursula Andress
Ursula Andress, with some parts voiced by Nikki van der Zyl, established the Bond Girl standard as Honey Ryder in “Dr. No.” Her iconic white bikini moment is what most remember.
While her character may lack depth in the script, Honey shows a fierce side and a thirst for revenge. She may seem shy around Bond, but there’s more to her than meets the eye.
She’s a solid start for the franchise’s women, but it’s her unforgettable bikini scene that remains etched in our memories.
9. Camille Montes Played by: Olga Kurylenko
Olga Kurylenko’s Camille in “Quantum of Solace” breaks the mold of typical Bond girls. Her quest for revenge aligns with 007’s mission, and she resists Bond’s charms, standing out as the first major Bond girl to do so.
Independent, determined, and self-reliant, she shares similarities with Bond himself.
Camille’s journey isn’t overshadowed by Bond’s, and she proves to be more than just his sidekick. This film is a standout in the Bond franchise.
8. Natalya Simonova Played by: Izabella Scorupco
Izabella Scorupco’s Natalya Fyodorovna Simonova in “GoldenEye” is a unique character. As a Level 2 programmer, she’s the tech genius of the film, paired with a charming naivety.
Her trusting nature shines despite dealing with the sneaky Boris. Natalya’s well-liked character helps Bond with her computer programming skills and stands out as a standout heroine in a franchise known for its Bond girls.
7. Pussy Galore Played by: Honor Blackman
Honor Blackman’s portrayal of Pussy Galore in “Goldfinger” has made her a legendary Bond girl. Galore is a captivating character, exuding sensuality and strength while leading her female pilot team, the flying circus.
Some aspects of the film may feel dated, especially in scenes regarding intimacy and consent. Nevertheless, she remains an iconic and trailblazing character in the ever-evolving world of James Bond.
6. Octopussy Played by: Maud Adams
Maud Adams shines as Octopussy in the eponymous film, a wealthy jewel smuggler with a unique nickname. She initially aligns with the villains for monetary gain but switches sides to help Bond when she discovers their sinister plans.
Their flirtatious banter leads to a comically quirky ending.
While “Octopussy” received mixed reviews, Maud Adams’ performance as the title character left a lasting impression, making her one of the rare Bond girl actors to appear in multiple roles.
5. Tatiana Romanova Played by: Daniela Bianchi
Tatiana Romanova, portrayed by Daniela Bianchi, is the iconic Bond girl in the 1963 classic “From Russia with Love.”
A former ballerina stationed at the Soviet Embassy in Istanbul, Tatiana’s involvement in a dangerous mission against 007 made her a memorable character. Little did she know she was a pawn in SPECTRE’s devious scheme to discredit the British Secret Service.
Daniela Bianchi’s portrayal added depth to Tatiana, making her a favorite among Bond girl enthusiasts.
Tatiana proved to be more than just a pretty face, becoming a cherished figure in the captivating world of James Bond and, of course, becoming his love interest as well.
4. Tracy Bond Played by: Diana Rigg
In “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” James Bond breaks his usual bachelor character trait and marries for the first and only time in the film series. His womanizing image takes a backseat as he deeply falls in love with Tracy.
Unfortunately, their wedding day takes a tragic turn when they’re ambushed by Blofeld and his henchwoman, leading to Tracy’s death. Diana Rigg’s portrayal of Tracy leaves a lasting impact on the franchise, redefining Bond’s character and challenging his emotions.
While her time in Bond’s world is tragically short-lived, she remains the benchmark for all Bond girls.
3. Xenia Onatopp Played by: Famke Janssen
Famke Janssen’s portrayal of Xenia in “GoldenEye” made a memorable impact. This Soviet assassin’s lethal signature move, suffocating men with her powerful thighs, is hard to forget.
Beyond the screen, Janssen’s performance brought her both praise and scrutiny from the media. This intense experience led her to step back from the limelight, avoiding high-profile relationships and social media.
As a memorable secondary villain, Xenia Onatopp’s over-the-top and bizarre persona added a unique touch to the world of Bond girls.
2. Wai Lin Played by: Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh’s portrayal of Wai Lin in “Tomorrow Never Dies” was impressive, breaking away from the typical Bond girl trope. She’s a fierce and independent espionage agent with her own agenda.
As a smart and savvy Chinese spy, Wai Lin showcases jaw-dropping fight skills that even Bond could envy. While the franchise often features “damsel in distress” characters, Wai Lin spends most of the film proving she belongs at the wheel, not in the backseat.
As the first ethnic Chinese Bond girl, she received critical acclaim and is hailed as one of the series’ best.
1. Vesper Lynd Played by: Eva Green
Eva Green’s portrayal of Vesper Lynd in “Casino Royale” is a defining moment for Bond. From their first encounter, Vesper sizes him up, always one step ahead, until love takes them both by surprise.
Green’s performance brings Vesper to life with a perfect blend of wit, strength, and vulnerability. Her chemistry with Daniel Craig is off the charts, making her one of the best Bond girl actresses.
Vesper is the one who truly haunts Bond, and her betrayal is the most memorable, shaping him into the iconic 007 we know today. For James Bond, it all started with Vesper, making her an irreplaceable part of his story.
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