13 Actresses You Probably Forgot Were Bond Girls

When people think of James Bond, a long list of well-known names usually comes to mind. But some of the most memorable Bond girls have faded from the spotlight over time. This list looks back at 13 actresses who once played Bond girls in the iconic James Bond films. From glamorous action heroines to scene-stealing villains, these actresses have brought their own unique charm, wit and edge to the legendary 007 franchise.

Honor Blackman

Honor Blackman played one of the most iconic Bond girls, redefining the archetype with brains and brawn. She portrayed Pussy Galore in the 1964 film Goldfinger, opposite Sean Connery ,with producer Albert R. Broccoli casting her on the basis of her success in the British TV series The Avengers, as reported by Best Classic Bands.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh brought unforgettable martial arts flair to her Bond girl role, showing she could more than hold her own against 007. She played Chinese secret agent Wai Lin in the 1997 film Tomorrow Never Dies, opposite Pierce Brosnan, while performing all of her own fighting scenes, per NBC.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry turned heads with her Bond girl appearance, delivering glamour and grit in equal measure. She starred as NSA agent Jinx in the 2002 film Die Another Day, the fourth and final Bond film to feature Pierce Brosnan, according to Deadline. Her presence reinvigorated the role for a new generation. Known for her dynamic screen presence, she remains a standout in Bond history.

Jane Seymour

Jane Seymour charmed audiences early in her career with her role as a Bond girl. She played Solitaire, a mysterious tarot card reader, opposite Roger Moore in the 1973 film Live and Let Die. She brought an air of mystery and grace to the film, setting her apart in the Bond legacy.

Britt Ekland

Britt Ekland wowed with her turn as a Bond girl, infusing the role with her signature blend of glamour and humor. The Swedish actress played Mary Goodnight alongside Roger Moore in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. Her performance remains a favorite for fans of vintage Bond.

Famke Janssen

Famke Janssen redefined the Bond girl persona with her captivating and deadly character. The Dutch actress played assassin Xenia Onatopp in Pierce Brosnan‘s debut Bond film GoldenEye, becoming a defining part of that film’s legacy, according to GeekTyrant. Her performance added a memorable twist, blending allure with a dangerous edge.

Eva Green

Eva Green‘s Bond girl role remains one of the most memorable for its depth and emotional impact. She played Vesper Lynd in the 2006 film Casino Royale, and her nuanced performance captivated audiences. Green brought new layers to the Bond girl tradition, making her a fan favorite.

Luciana Paluzzi

Luciana Paluzzi offered an unforgettable take on the Bond girl as a fierce and formidable adversary. The Italian actress played SPECTRE assassin Fiona Volpe in the 1965 film Thunderball, a role she originally didn’t audition for but ultimately found “more fun” to play, per Bond Scenes. Her compelling villainess performance raised the stakes for 007. She remains a classic example of how Bond girls can break the traditional mold.

Barbara Bach

Barbara Bach portrayed a Bond girl with intelligence, independence and confidence, refreshing the familiar formula. She played KGB Major Anya Amasova in The Spy Who Loved Me. Her portrayal stood out as strong and sophisticated. Bach’s presence in the Bond world has made her role an enduring touchstone for fans.

Diana Rigg

Diana Rigg brought iconic panache and strength to her Bond girl role, creating a beloved character who matched Bond move for move. She played Contessa Tracy di Vicenzo in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and her character remains the only Bond girl to have officially married 007, played by George Lazenby, as reported by Spy Movie Navigator. Her performance is still celebrated as one of the franchise’s best.

Ursula Andress

Ursula Andress became the first Bond girl to capture worldwide attention, establishing the standard for those who followed. As Honey Ryder in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, her iconic emergence from the sea in a white bikini is considered one of cinema’s classic moments, and she went on to win the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year in 1964 for the role, per Movie Maker. Her impact on the franchise remains legendary. Andress infused every scene with style and magnetism, making her a true cinema icon.

Maud Adams

Maud Adams made Bond history by playing two different Bond girls, and her sophisticated performances cemented her legacy in the series. She is the only actress to have played two major Bond girl roles — first in The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) and then as the title character in Octopussy (1983) after producer Albert Broccoli personally hand-selected her for both films, according to TV Insider. She brought both warmth and intrigue to her roles, creating memorable characters.

Shirley Eaton

Shirley Eaton‘s Bond girl role became one of the series’ most enduring images, blending allure with intrigue. She played Jill Masterson in Goldfinger (1964), and her gold-painted death scene became so iconic that it appeared on the cover of Life magazine, as reported by Smithsonian Magazine. Her brief but iconic screen time left a lasting legacy. Eaton remains a pop culture reference point, decades after her appearance alongside 007.