Pierce Brosnan attended the New York City premiere of The Thursday Murder Club, a film about four retired friends who investigate cold cases for fun until they encounter a real murder mystery. During the event, Brosnan offered valuable Pierce Brosnan James Bond advice for actors who might take on the 007 role in the future.
Speaking with Extra’s Mona Kosar Abdi, Brosnan reflected on his experience playing James Bond across several films and commented on the many actors rumored to replace Daniel Craig, including Jonathan Bailey and Aaron Taylor Johnson.
Advice for Future James Bond Actors
Brosnan acknowledged the prestige of the James Bond character and the profound impact the role has on an actor’s life. He said,
“There are so many great men out there. There’s so many wonderful actors. It’s a magnificent role. Whoever finds the role, it will change their life.”
—Pierce Brosnan
Offering encouragement, he advised the next Bond to embrace the part fully:
“Be bold. Enjoy it. Know yourself, be strong, go out there and have a great time.”
—Pierce Brosnan
Working with Legendary Cast on The Thursday Murder Club
In the film, Dame Helen Mirren plays a former MI5 agent, a character reminiscent of James Bond. Brosnan described the camaraderie on set with Helen Mirren, Sir Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie, saying they shared relaxed moments:
“We chitchat. We have cups of tea and we talk about the world and try and sort it out. Then we just go to work and play.”
Brosnan was drawn to the project by Richard Osman’s bestselling book and its rich characters. He highlighted the story’s focus on aging with dignity and passion, emphasizing,
“It’s just the humanity of it. It takes courage to get old, to be yourself. At any age, it really takes courage to live life, and these people are full of vibrancy and they’re full of passion. One wants to live, so that’s what it’s about.”
—Pierce Brosnan
Perspectives on a Female James Bond Role
During the conversation, Helen Mirren gave her view on the possibility of a woman playing James Bond in the future. She said bluntly,
“It wouldn’t work. Do something else.”
—Helen Mirren
Mirren acknowledged the contributions of courageous women in intelligence roles but stressed that James Bond is traditionally a male character:
“There have been some amazing women, who have worked in the secret service, with incredible courage,”
she said.
“James Bond is a bloke, you can’t avoid it, really.”
—Helen Mirren
The Thursday Murder Club Premieres on Netflix
The Thursday Murder Club will be available on Netflix starting August 28, inviting audiences to experience this intriguing blend of mystery and heartfelt storytelling.
