Mission Impossible 7's Showdown: Grace vs Ilsa - A Star Breaks the Silence!

Hayley Atwell, star of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, recently spoke up about the fan criticism regarding the character of Grace and concerns that she may replace Ilsa. Atwell appeared on the Happy Sad Confused podcast hosted by Josh Horowitz and addressed these concerns. She made it clear that Grace is not meant to replace Ilsa, praising Rebecca Ferguson's performance as "distinctive and powerful." Atwell emphasized that there is room for multiple female characters in the Mission: Impossible franchise. For Atwell's full response, you can read it or watch the video starting at 10:40.

Commentary like "Where's Ilsa?" and "Oh, she's coming to take over" created a misconception. Rebecca Ferguson's portrayal of Ilsa in this franchise is outstanding and commanding. It's not about rivalry or me encroaching on anyone's territory as a newcomer. It represents a fresh perspective, and I needed to find a way to stand out. During some takes, I recall that she displayed more charm and vulnerability, which ultimately translated well in the film. It seemed like she was attempting to win over the audience.

McCue and Tom expressed a preference for when she was less friendly. Initially, we don't trust her, and the audience also withdraws slightly. However, if she remains unapologetic in her determination to survive and does not try to win everyone over, we actually like her more. This is similar to Hayley Atwell's desired portrayal of the character, wanting to depart from the Mission: Impossible franchise. This lack of manipulation is appealing. There's room for all the women involved, including Pom Klementieff, an incredible force, Vanessa Kirby, a goddess-like figure, and of course, Rebecca, who is incredibly unique.

What To Expect From Hayley Atwell's Grace In Mission: Impossible 7

Attention: Contains spoilers for Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One

In Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One, Grace emerges as a skilled thief entrusted with the task of retrieving half of The Entity's key. Described as both a formidable and unpredictable force, her loyalties remain uncertain. Nonetheless, Grace aligns herself with Ethan to prevent Gabriel, the main antagonist, from obtaining the key.

Given Ilsa's demise in Mission: Impossible 7 following a confrontation with Gabriel, it is logical to speculate that Grace is filling her role. Indeed, Grace assumes the position of the film's primary female protagonist in its final act. While she and Ethan part ways at the conclusion of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, it can be reasonably assumed that Grace will continue as the leading female character in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two, and potentially future installments of the franchise.

Source: Josh Horowitz