Why George Lazenby Was Chosen as James Bond, an Unlikely Casting Decision

The casting of George Lazenby as James Bond in "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" in 1969 was one of the most unconventional and unexpected choices in the long history of the James Bond franchise. This article delves into the reasons behind this unconventional decision, exploring the background and merits of Lazenby's casting and the impact it had on the film and the franchise.

Casting Background and Initial Controversy

According to various articles and documentaries, the producer had just wrapped up filming "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", another film based on Ian Fleming's novels. However, Dick Van Dyke, the star of the musical, was initially considered for the role of Agent 007. Sean Connery had also resigned from the franchise, leading to a scramble for a new actor.

George Lazenby initially deceived the producer, claiming to be a successful Australian actor before eventually divulging the truth. He was ultimately chosen because of his physical resemblance to the Bond character and his ability to demonstrate aggression, which impressed the producer. Despite his initial success, Lazenby's tenure as James Bond was short-lived, with the film being the least successful in the series at that time.

Wikipedia's Rational Explanation

Wikipedia offers a more rational explanation: Broccoli and Hunt chose Lazenby after seeing him in a Frys Chocolate Cream advertisement. Lazenby's charisma, attire, and physical appearance aligned with the Bond persona, and he was further impressed by his natural ability to portray aggression. However, his agent, Ronan O'Rahilly, advised that the secret agent role would become archaic in the liberated 1970s, leading to Lazenby's departure from the series after the release of On Her Majesty's Secret Service in 1969.

Understanding the Casting Decision

The choice of George Lazenby can be attributed to his physical resemblance to the archetype of James Bond, as well as his compelling screen presence. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Physical Attributes: Lazenby's build and demeanor made him a convincing Bond. He possessed a rugged, yet aristocratic appearance that aligned with the brooding yet charming nature of the character. Screen Persona: His natural ability to portray aggression and his charismatic presence added to his appeal as a potential lead. Adaptability: The role of James Bond required a certain level of physicality and an ability to embody a complex character. Lazenby's experience in various film roles made him well-suited for the demanding nature of the part.

Comparison with Other Actors

It's important to compare Lazenby's casting with other well-known actors in the series:

Sean Connery

Sean Connery, the first actor to portray James Bond, was chosen based on his physical charm and screen presence. His gruff, commanding demeanor and his ability to blend toughness with charm made him a perfect fit for the role. However, disputes with the producers and creative differences led to his departure after four films.

Pierce Brosnan

In contrast, Pierce Brosnan was cast as James Bond based on his more modern, suave charm. His role during the late 1990s and early 2000s brought a new level of sophistication and wit to the character. However, the September 11 attacks in 2001 shifted the franchise's narrative, and it was decided that Brosnan was too old for the role by the time Die Another Day was produced.

David Beckham

It's worth noting that in 2005, there was a highly publicized plan to cast David Beckham as James Bond. However, the proposal was ultimately abandoned due to concerns about his screen acting abilities and the need for a more established actor to navigate the complex narrative of the series.

Conclusion and Legacy

George Lazenby's short tenure as James Bond left a lasting legacy, with the film remaining a favorite among Bond enthusiasts despite its lukewarm reception. His casting serves as a unique case study in the unconventional choices made during the production of the films, highlighting the often surprising paths taken by Hollywood casting directors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the casting of George Lazenby as James Bond in 1969 was a decision driven by physical appearance, screen presence, and a sense of freshness that the producers believed the character needed at the time. Lazenby's unique story and contribution to the franchise continue to be a fascinating topic for Bond aficionados and filmmakers alike.