Supermodel and reality TV star Kendall Jenner has become the surprise frontrunner to be cast as the next iconic James Bond Girl, according to leading UK bookmakers.
From the Catwalk to 007
Bookmaker Coral has installed Jenner as the odds-on favourite at 1/2 to land the coveted role in the next instalment of the legendary spy franchise. This potential casting would see the 30-year-old follow in the footsteps of celebrated Bond Girls like Halle Berry, Rosamund Pike, and Ana de Armas.
The speculation comes at a pivotal moment in Jenner's career. She recently revealed plans to step away from modelling to pursue a "drastically different new career". With her successful 818 Tequila brand firmly established and a modelling career "off the charts", a move into acting appears to be the logical next step.
A Family Affair with 007
The Jenner family's recent fascination with the Bond universe has only fuelled the rumours. Kendall's mother, Kris Jenner, recently hosted an epic 007-themed birthday party for her daughter, where Kendall herself channelled her inner Bond Girl in a stunning ruby red gown, reminiscent of Caterina Murino's look in Casino Royale.
Adding to the spectacle, her sister Kim Kardashian wore an almost identical version of the iconic lavender dress that Halle Berry sported in the 2002 film Die Another Day. This isn't Kendall's first foray into Bond aesthetics; back in 2019, she famously recreated Ursula Andress's legendary white bikini scene from the 1962 classic Dr. No.
Expert Weighs In on Potential Casting
Brand and culture expert Nick Ede told the Daily Mail that casting the supermodel would be a "brilliant and modern move" for the franchise. He believes Jenner could attract a whole new generation of fans.
"She fits the mould of the classic Bond woman, effortlessly glamorous, poised, and mysterious," Ede explained. "But she also brings a more current edge that could completely redefine the role. What makes Kendall so interesting is that she's not just a model; she's a brand in herself."
Ede also highlighted that Jenner is a natural successor to other models-turned-Bond Girls, such as Ursula Andress, Grace Jones, and Olga Kurylenko. He even suggested she could outshine her sister Kim's recent acting efforts, quipping, "Which won't be hard!"
Other contenders in the running for the part include Sydney Sweeney (2/1), Cara Delevingne (5/1), and Margot Robbie (6/1). The search for a new Bond Girl comes after the most recent film, 2021's No Time to Die, marked Daniel Craig's final performance as the secret agent.
