Rosamund Pike recently revealed a disconcerting experience from her early days in Hollywood. The talented actress disclosed that during her audition for the 2002 James Bond film 'Die Another Day,' she was asked to strip down to her underwear. Pike, who ultimately landed the role of femme fatale Miranda Frost in the movie, recounted the incident during an interview for an "Audible Session" promoting an audiobook of Jane Austen’s 'Sense and Sensibility,' which she narrated.
Recalling the uncomfortable situation, Pike, then just 21 years old, bravely refused to comply with the request, demonstrating remarkable resolve and self-assurance. "My first audition was for a Bond film, and I remember them saying I was to drop my dress and appear in my underwear," she shared. However, Pike made a conscious decision not to adhere to the demand. "On the day, I don’t know how I got the resolve and strength of mind, but I just thought, ‘Actually, sod that, if they’re gonna see me in my underwear, they better give me the job,’" she explained.
During the audition, Pike opted to wear her grandmother’s silk gown, but it was deemed insufficiently flashy for the role. The costume designer suggested a more revealing ensemble, which made Pike realize she was in unfamiliar territory. "I realized I was in a completely different world and way out of my depth," she admitted. Despite the pressure, Pike remained steadfast and did not comply with the request to undress.
Pike's revelation adds to the ongoing conversation surrounding the treatment of women in the film industry, particularly in light of the #MeToo movement. Her account sheds light on the challenges faced by actresses, including instances of uncomfortable auditions and inappropriate demands. As the industry continues to confront issues of harassment and inequality, Pike's story serves as a reminder of the importance of empowerment and agency for women in Hollywood.
