Rosamund Pike revealed that she faced a daunting request during her audition for the 2002 James Bond movie, Die Another Day.
The actress, who ultimately landed the role of Miranda Frost, a femme fatale in the film, shared her experience.
Recalling the incident, Pike mentioned that as a young 21-year-old actress, she was asked to undress to her underwear for the audition.
However, she bravely declined this demand, earning respect from the producers.
The discussion took place during an “Audible Session” promoting her narration of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility audiobook.
In her own words, Pike stated, “During my first audition for a Bond film, they instructed me to remove my dress and appear in lingerie.
But on that significant day, I found the courage to resist.
I thought to myself, ‘If they want to see me in my undergarments, then they should hire me outright.’
Therefore, I firmly decided not to comply with disrobing during the audition, knowing that the footage could be circulated and judged based on that act.”
Describing her outfit choice for the audition, Pike shared that she opted for her grandmother’s elegant silk gown, only to be advised that it was not the right fit for a Bond film.
The costume designer suggested something more revealing by presenting three scant pieces of fabric, highlighting the stark contrast between her initial selection and the expected attire.
Feeling somewhat out of place, Pike acknowledged the disparity and her unfamiliarity with the industry norms.
She decided to wear a dazzling sheath as per the requirements, but stood her ground against stripping down as requested.
Reflecting on her time on set with Pierce Brosnan, Pike expressed her comfort despite the challenging audition experience.
Her narrative emerges amidst the backdrop of the #MeToo movement, which shed light on numerous accounts of inappropriate auditions within the entertainment industry.
Various actresses have come forward with distressing audition encounters, including Mira Sorvino’s revelation of losing a role due to a director’s advances, allegations against CSI casting personnel Andy Henry, and instances where actresses auditioning for projects like Trafficked were subjected to unsettling simulations.
As this story unfolds, inquiries have been directed to MGM by The Hollywood
