The Bridgerton star says she would consider joining the James Bond franchise while revealing ambitions to explore action and fantasy roles.
Bridgerton star Simone Ashley has opened up about her ambitions for future projects, including the possibility of joining the iconic James Bond universe.
The 31-year-old actress recently appeared on the cover of ELLE UK and discussed her plans for the next stage of her career ahead of receiving the Performer of the Year award at the ELLE Style Awards on Wednesday, September 9.
Ashley, who appeared in The Devil Wears Prada 2 earlier this year, said she is keen to take on fresh challenges and explore different genres.
“I definitely want to do more movies and find a really delicious TV show to get into. I’d love to do an action movie. Something fantasy, maybe,” she said.
Asked whether she would consider appearing in a Bond film, Ashley did not rule out the possibility.
“I would, yeah. If it happens, it happens! I’m not going to talk about it,” she said.
The Bond franchise is entering a new era following Amazon MGM’s acquisition of creative control over the series, with the search for the next actor to play 007 underway.
Ashley’s comments come as speculation continues over the future cast of the long-running spy franchise.
Simone Ashley opens up about family plans
Away from her acting career, Ashley also spoke about her personal life, including her relationship with her new boyfriend, Jay Jammal.
The actress said she hopes to have a family of her own one day and is looking for a partner who shares her values and ambitions.
“I definitely want to have my own family and I’d love to find my person,” Ashley said.
“I have all my dreams and ambitions for my career and that will live on, and I trust that when the time is right the other parts of my personal life will find their way, too.”
She added that she does not want to put pressure on herself when it comes to relationships.
“I don’t put pressure on anything. I believe in the right person at the right time – someone who’s kind and has similar ambitions and dreams,” she said.
Ashley credits Bridgerton for changing her life
Reflecting on her breakthrough role as Kate Sharma in Bridgerton, Ashley said the Netflix period drama had transformed her career.
“It changed my life and, without it, I wouldn’t be where I am. That show reached near and far. I’m in it till the end!” she said.
Meanwhile, speculation over the next James Bond continues, with bookmakers reportedly listing Callum Turner as the favourite at 5/4, followed by Jack Lowden at 7/4 and newcomer Jack Barton at 9/2.
“There’s plenty of competition for the role,” according to the latest betting odds.
Ashley’s comments are unlikely to end speculation about her potential involvement in the franchise. For now, however, the actress appears focused on taking on challenging roles across film and television.