Bernard Lee - 1962 - 1979

Arguably the best M in the Bond series, M is cool, though some say 'crusty'. M has the job of delivering Bond his missions, and acts as a 'father' figure to 007, and often comes across as cold to Bond, though he does highly regard him. Occasionally, M comes out with some humorous lines. One memorable line was in 'The Man With The Golden Gun' when Bond asked M who would pay Scaramanga a million dollars to assassinate him - M replies - 'Jealous husbands. Outraged chefs. Humiliated tailors. The list is endless!' Bernard Lee died before production could start on 'For Your Eyes Only' in 1981. Out of respect for this truly great actor, the position of M was left void in this 007 outing.

Robert Brown - 1983 - 1989

After the reign of Bernard Lee, there came Robert Brown as M. Robert Brown appears in 4 James Bond films, though you can't help noticing that there is something missing after Bernard Lee. However, Brown is an adequate replacement, though he doesn't seem to have the air of authority that Bernard Lee had around 007. In Robert Brown's last appearance as M ( License to Kill ), he has a dispute with 007 over a personal vendetta, and 007's Licence to Kill is revoked. This is probably the best appearance Robert Brown gave as M, and many Bond fans will remember his contribution to the 007 series.

Judi Dench - 1995 - Present

A new, rejuvenated M came to the screen in Pierce Brosnan's debut as 007. However, many fans were sceptical that M would be played by a woman. However, Judi Dench has been superb in this role, and her somewhat aggresive, no - nonsense approach has been a hit with many 007 fans. Her relationship with 007 has appeared as frosty, though both hold respect for each other. In the latest 007 film ( The World Is Not Enough ), M plays an active role in the plot, which is a first for M in the 007 series.