It seems like it’s a rite of passage for young actresses. When you’re truly up and coming the one role you simply must play is that of the next Bond Girl. It appears that Freida Pinto has made that jump to the next level. Pinto is rumored to be appearing in the next as yet untitled Bond flick and apparently her boyfriend, Dev Patel is okay with the starlet rolling around with the best spy in the Queen’s employ.

The newest iteration is rumored to be taking place in Afghanistan but the rest of the plot has yet to be revealed. Sam Mendes is on board to direct the 23rd edition of the Bond films, and Olivia Wilde, who is best known as ‘13’ in the hit medical drama ‘House’ is expected to take the role of the second Bond girl in the new film.

Mendes has reportedly been very excited to direct this particular delivery of the much beloved franchise. Daniel Craig will also return as 007 in his third Bond film. Craig has managed to take a franchise that was struggling to stay relevant with poor acting, and super silly story lines. Craig’s Bond has been darker and more brooding, and has appeared to jump start the chain.

Freida Pinto to be the next Bond Girl (PHOTO)