The Ultimate Search for the Next M: Who Will Be James Bond's Newest Ally?

Summary

Daisy May Cooper responds to rumors of her being considered for the role of M in the next James Bond reboot, stating that the rumors quickly spread like wildfire.

Cooper's name came up in a radio discussion regarding the next M, which prompted media inquiries at her parents' residence, despite the unfounded rumors.

Cooper maintains her openness to the idea of taking on the role of M and playfully exclaims, "Step aside, Dench!"

British comic and actor Daisy May Cooper has addressed rumors surrounding her potential casting as M in the next James Bond reboot. Throughout the history of the Bond franchise, only four actors - Bernard Lee, Robert Brown, Judi Dench, and Ralph Fiennes - have portrayed the iconic role of M, the codename for the Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service known as MI-6. Unlike other recurring characters, each new iteration of M has been a distinct character with their own codename.

Speaking to NME, Cooper clarified that the rumors began after her name was mentioned as a possibility during a radio discussion. However, the rumors quickly spread and even reached her parents. Despite the fact that the rumors may be unfounded, Cooper expressed her willingness to embrace the role, cheekily stating, "Move over Dench!" See her full comments below.

I think it was on the radio… they were discussing who they want to be the next M and then somebody mentioned my name and from then it just spread like wildfire. I had journalists from the Daily Mail coming to my parents' door at night. Yes, give me a prominent role. Step aside, Dench!

Why Ralph Fiennes Should Stay On As M In The Next James Bond

Throughout the official James Bond franchise, there has been only one movie where M did not make an appearance. This occurred in 1981’s For Your Eyes Only. Unfortunately, the actor who had portrayed M since 1962’s Dr. No, Lee, passed away from cancer during the film's production. As a mark of respect, it was decided not to recast the role for that particular movie. Subsequently, while the character of Bond changed hands several times, only two more actors had the privilege of assuming the esteemed position of 007's boss, following Brown's previous character, Admiral Hargreaves.

While the James Bond franchise has always had a loose approach to continuity, it has become customary to honor the lineage of M's role despite the changing actors. Although attention is currently focused on the next Bond actor, there is no need to replace Fiennes, who took on the role in 2012's Skyfall. Like his predecessors, Fiennes' M should have the opportunity to appear alongside multiple Bond actors.

Fiennes himself has expressed his desire to continue in the role, stating, "I'm very keen to train the new Bond." As the Daniel Craig movies have been criticized for straying from long-standing traditions, retaining Fiennes as M in the next installment would address these concerns. However, it remains to be seen if a new James Bond movie will also bring a new head of MI-6.

Source: NME