In a heartfelt appeal, Pierce Brosnan, the beloved former James Bond actor, has urged producers to ensure the iconic character remains authentically British amid significant changes in ownership. As Amazon prepares to take the reins of the legendary spy franchise, Brosnan, who portrayed 007 in the 1990s and early 2000s, expressed both hope and caution regarding the future of Bond.

Brosnan revitalized the Bond legacy with his debut in “GoldenEye” after a six-year hiatus for the series. His tenure spanned four films, introducing a more emotionally complex Bond while maintaining the character’s sophisticated charm. Reflecting on his time as 007, Brosnan noted that his films not only succeeded commercially, grossing over $1.4 billion, but also laid the groundwork for Daniel Craig’s reinterpretation of the role.

The recent acquisition of the Bond franchise by Amazon marks a seismic shift in Hollywood, granting the tech giant unprecedented creative control. This transition raises concerns about the potential loss of the franchise’s quintessential British identity, a sentiment echoed by many in the film community. Brosnan’s urgent message emphasizes the need for Amazon to handle the character with “dignity, imagination, and respect,” qualities that have defined Bond for generations.

At 71, Brosnan acknowledged the inevitable changes that accompany corporate ownership but remains hopeful that producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson will continue to influence the character’s direction. He underscored the importance of keeping Bond’s British roots intact, stating that it is essential for the next actor to be British. This insistence reflects the character’s long-standing role as a cultural ambassador for British sophistication and resilience.

As Amazon charts a new course for 007, Brosnan’s call resonates with fans and industry insiders alike, who are eager to see how the franchise will evolve while preserving the essence of what makes James Bond an enduring icon.