In an exclusive and revealing interview, acclaimed actress Famke Janssen has shared the surprising truth about nearly turning down the role that would catapult her to international stardom - the deadly Xenia Onatopp in the James Bond classic GoldenEye.
The Role That Almost Got Away
Janssen confessed that when first offered the part of the thigh-crushing assassin in Pierce Brosnan's Bond debut, she hesitated significantly. "I wasn't sure about taking it," the Dutch actress revealed. "The Bond girl stereotype concerned me - I worried about being typecast or not being taken seriously as an actress."
Creating an Iconic Villain
What ultimately convinced her was the unique nature of the character. "Xenia was different," Janssen explained. "She wasn't just a beautiful accessory - she was a formidable villain in her own right, equal to any male character in the film."
The actress worked extensively to develop Xenia's distinctive Russian accent and lethal physicality, creating what would become one of the most memorable Bond villains in the franchise's history.
Beyond Bond: A Diverse Career
Since her breakthrough in GoldenEye, Janssen has deliberately pursued varied roles that showcase her range. From Jean Grey in the X-Men franchise to her current role in the period drama Redeeming Love, she has consistently chosen projects that challenge both her and audience expectations.
New Horizons with Redeeming Love
In her latest film, Redeeming Love, Janssen takes on the role of the Duchess, a complex character in this adaptation of Francine Rivers' bestselling novel. Set during the California Gold Rush, the film represents another deliberate career choice for the actress.
"I'm drawn to stories with depth and characters with complexity," Janssen stated. "The opportunity to be part of a meaningful love story with historical significance was incredibly appealing."
Reflecting on Legacy
Looking back on her career, Janssen expresses particular pride in how she navigated the transition from Bond girl to respected dramatic actress. "It wasn't easy to escape that initial label," she admitted, "but by carefully selecting roles that demonstrated my versatility, I was able to build a career on my own terms."
The actress remains grateful for the opportunity GoldenEye provided, acknowledging that while she had reservations, the role ultimately opened doors throughout Hollywood and beyond.
