George Lazenby’s tenure as James Bond remains one of the most debated and discussed chapters in the franchise’s history. His single appearance in 1969’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service stemmed from a premature and ultimately career-damaging decision to heed bad advice and reject a lucrative multi-picture deal, fueled by a misjudgment of the Bond franchise’s longevity and a desire to avoid typecasting.
A Diamond in the Rough: Lazenby’s Unexpected Casting
Lazenby, an Australian model with no prior acting experience, was an unlikely choice to succeed Sean Connery. Producers Albert R. “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Saltzman, however, were captivated by his screen presence, particularly his physicality and self-assuredness. He convinced them he could portray Bond, even faking his knowledge of martial arts during his audition.
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, based on Ian Fleming’s novel considered by many to be one of the best in the series, presented a Bond with a more vulnerable and human side. Lazenby’s inexperience, paradoxically, contributed to this portrayal. While criticized by some for his acting, others found his rawness refreshing and suitable for the story’s emotional depth.
The Fatal Decision: Rejecting the Future
Despite the film’s solid box office returns (though lower than Connery’s films), Lazenby shocked the world by publicly announcing he would not reprise the role. This decision wasn’t solely his; he was heavily influenced by his agent, Ronan O’Rahilly, and his advisors.
O’Rahilly, a counter-culture figure who believed the Bond films were becoming outdated and irrelevant, convinced Lazenby that the 1970s would favor more socially conscious and experimental cinema. He argued that clinging to the Bond role would be a career dead-end, pigeonholing Lazenby and preventing him from pursuing “serious” acting. This proved to be a colossal miscalculation.
Lazenby, caught up in the zeitgeist and eager to avoid being typecast, foolishly bought into this vision. He believed he could become a respected actor on his own terms, shedding the Bond image and embracing more diverse roles. The reality, however, was far different.
The Aftermath: A Career Undone
Lazenby’s decision backfired spectacularly. Instead of launching him into a new phase of his career, it effectively stalled it. He struggled to find meaningful roles, his name forever associated with his brief stint as 007. While he did appear in some films and television shows, he never achieved the stardom he envisioned.
The Bond producers, understandably, felt betrayed. They had invested heavily in Lazenby and were left scrambling to find a replacement. Sean Connery was eventually lured back for Diamonds Are Forever, albeit for a hefty fee, demonstrating the producers’ commitment to the franchise’s stability.
Lazenby himself has expressed regret over his decision, acknowledging that he was young and naive, influenced by poor advice. He has since embraced his Bond legacy and become a popular figure at Bond-related events and conventions. While his career never reached its potential, he remains a fascinating and controversial figure in Bond history.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Lazenby’s Bond Legacy
1. Was On Her Majesty’s Secret Service a box office failure?
No. While On Her Majesty’s Secret Service grossed less than its predecessors, it was still a commercial success, earning over $82 million worldwide. However, it didn’t reach the heights of Connery’s films, which contributed to the perception of Lazenby’s failure.
2. Did the producers want Lazenby back for another film?
Yes. Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman were initially keen to sign Lazenby to a multi-picture deal. They saw potential in him, despite the mixed reviews. His sudden departure forced them to scramble for a replacement.
3. What kind of deal was Lazenby offered?
Lazenby was offered a seven-picture deal worth a significant sum, providing him with financial security and the opportunity to solidify his position as James Bond. He turned it down based on his agent’s advice.
4. What roles did Lazenby pursue after Bond?
Lazenby appeared in a variety of films, including Universal Soldier (1971), Life and Legend of Bruce Lee (1976), and several smaller productions. However, he never found a role that propelled him to stardom. He also made television appearances in shows like Baywatch and Alfred Hitchcock Presents.
5. Did Lazenby ever publicly regret his decision?
Yes. In numerous interviews and public appearances, Lazenby has expressed regret over his decision to leave the Bond franchise, acknowledging that he was young and misguided.
6. How did audiences and critics react to Lazenby’s performance as Bond?
Reaction was mixed. Some critics praised his physicality and rawness, seeing him as a more human and vulnerable Bond. Others criticized his acting, finding him wooden and unconvincing. Audiences were also divided, with some embracing his fresh take and others longing for Connery’s more polished portrayal.
7. What was the main criticism leveled against On Her Majesty’s Secret Service?
While the film itself is now considered a classic by many Bond fans, at the time, one of the major criticisms (beyond Lazenby’s performance for some) was its length. At 142 minutes, it was considerably longer than previous Bond films.
8. Was Lazenby’s marital status a factor in his decision to leave?
Indirectly, yes. His relationship with his then-girlfriend (later wife) was becoming increasingly public. Her influence, combined with that of his agent, solidified his belief that embracing counter-culture and leaving Bond behind was the right path.
9. How did Lazenby get the role of James Bond in the first place?
Lazenby, despite having no acting experience, convinced the producers he was right for the part. He impressed them with his physical presence, charm, and confidence during his screen test. He even reportedly faked martial arts skills to further solidify his image as the capable and dangerous 007.
10. What impact did Lazenby’s departure have on the Bond franchise?
Lazenby’s departure created a crisis for the Bond producers. It forced them to scramble to find a replacement and ultimately led to the costly return of Sean Connery for Diamonds Are Forever. It also highlighted the importance of casting someone committed to the franchise.
11. Is On Her Majesty’s Secret Service considered a good Bond film today?
Yes, increasingly so. Over time, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service has gained a strong following and is now regarded by many as one of the best Bond films, praised for its complex plot, emotional depth, and beautiful cinematography.
12. What is George Lazenby doing today?
George Lazenby, now in his eighties, continues to attend Bond-related events and conventions worldwide. He embraces his legacy as James Bond and often shares anecdotes and insights about his brief but memorable tenure in the role. He occasionally appears in cameos in film and television. His willingness to engage with fans has solidified his place in Bond history.