James Bond Not A Good Enough Spy? Head Of MI6 Slams 007 As Not Qualified For Real British Secret Service

He's saved the world on countless occasions. He's quick with a gun. He's witty and debonair. He knows how to rock a tuxedo. But despite all this, a real-life James Bond would not be hired by British secret intelligence.

Alex Younger, head of MIG and career officer since 1991, recently stated that 007 wouldn't cut it as a spy because he lacked the "strong ethical core" needed to serve. He suggested that Bond wouldn't get past the recruiting stage because he doesn't have important qualities like "a high degree of emotional intelligence, values teamwork and always has respect for the law."

Bond is among the most well-known action heroes in film history, with a total of 26 films beginning with Dr. No in 1962. But many have criticized the character for his misogyny and for the films' redundant themes. "Spectre," directed by Sam Mendes, was the latest release of the action franchise.

Bond was created by English author Ian Fleming, with the first novel, "Casino Royale," written in 1952. Fleming reportedly modeled Bond off of himself and people Fleming has known.

Younger is hoping the best in Britain apply for a position in MI6 and hopes to dispel the myth that it takes fighting skills and a degree from an elite university to have a career in British secret intelligence. He noted that a top aspect of the job is to "create relationships with brave people around the world."

"In contrast to James Bond, MI6 officers are not for taking moral shortcuts," Younger said in an interview published in blackhistorymonth.org.

"What is true is that our work at MI6 is exciting, intellectually challenging and it matters. We are Britain’s secret frontline, operating upstream in the shadows to keep our friends, families and fellow countrymen and women safe."