3. Classic Blofeld Is Too Pantomime
The success of Blofeld's character is enormous: he is now the archetype evil genius, cemented in popular culture and parodied across the universe. Dr. Evil from Austin Powers is the most notable example, but he unfortunately proves that Blofeld is a massive comic target. Recent Bond films have indicated that the franchise is taking a massive step away from the Moore/Brosnan era. Skyfall cut out the cringeworthy quips that have marred previous instalments, thankfully saving us the pain of lines such as "I think he's attempting re-entry, sir" in Moonraker, and "You always were a cunning linguist" in Tomorrow Never Dies. Long may this trend continue, but a return of the classic Blofeld may make it difficult to achieve. By replacing him with a female, the writers can avoid the minefield of clichés that a traditional characterisation of the character might bring, and the unwanted association with Dr Evil and his comic ilk, and deliver something fresh, and twice as sinister.