In 1968, George Lazenby, now 85, was cast as James Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, taking over a role made famous by Sean Connery. Unfortunately, Lazenby struggled to fit into the iconic character, partly due to poor advice he received. As his fame dwindled, he shifted focus to family life, ultimately facing tragedy with the loss of his son to a malignant brain tumor in 1994.
The James Bond franchise began in 1963 with Dr. No and has since become a cultural phenomenon, featuring numerous films and actors over the decades. Sean Connery, who portrayed Bond in five films between 1962 and 1967, grew weary of the role. In a 1965 interview with Playboy, he expressed his disinterest, stating he was “sick of this Bond thing”, and found the constant association with the character monotonous.
When Connery stepped away, producers faced the daunting task of finding a successor. Lazenby, then a 29-year-old unknown actor from Australia, caught their attention after appearing in commercials for Fry’s chocolate spread. His persistence and charm helped him land the coveted role. Lazenby even spent his last savings on a tailored suit that had originally belonged to Connery.
Upon auditioning, he boldly introduced himself by saying: “I heard you’re looking for James Bond”, and was subsequently offered the part. However, upon the release of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, reviews were mixed, and comparisons to Connery overshadowed Lazenby’s performance. Notably, critic Gene Siskel remarked that Lazenby lacked the suave confidence of his predecessor.
Despite the criticism, Lazenby was presented with a $1 million contract for six more films, but his manager advised against it, suggesting he pursue other opportunities. This decision led to Lazenby being “blacklisted” in Hollywood, with a reputation for being difficult to work with.
After a brief career in film and television, Lazenby shifted to a more private life. He married Christina Gannet in 1971, and they had two children. Tragically, their son Zachary battled a brain tumor for eight years before passing away at 19, leaving Lazenby “devastated”. Gannet shared on social media that losing Zachary was a profound sorrow for them both.
Following his son’s death, Lazenby divorced Gannet and later married Olympic tennis champion Pam Shriver, with whom he has three children. Now, Lazenby reflects on his life and cherishes his role as a father, stating: “The real successes in my life are my children”. Remember Lazenby’s portrayal of Bond? Share your thoughts on his legacy!
Brad Pitt Finds New Love After Heartbreaking Divorce At 60, And You Might Recognize Her
Brad Pitt was arguably the most eligible bachelor on the planet at one point in time. But not any longer.
His relationship with Ines de Ramon has long been known to fans; the two are rumored to have arranged a low-key week to commemorate his milestone 60th birthday.
After ringing in his sixth decade on Monday, Pitt wasn’t inclined to go crazy with the festivities, according to PEOPLE. The fact that he desired to spend time with De Ramon speaks volumes about his dedication to her.
Actor Paul Wesley’s ex-wife De Ramon is reportedly described as “Brad’s first proper relationship since the divorce” from Angelina Jolie by a source who talked with PEOPLE last month.
In fact, it’s reported that the Troy actor began referring to the thirty-two-year-old as his girlfriend.
According to a PEOPLE insider, “He introduces [Ines] as his girlfriend.””Seeing him in a happy place is wonderful. Ines brings him much joy.
Pitt’s journey back to happiness hasn’t been easy; his turbulent divorce from Angelina Jolie left scars that don’t seem to be completely healed.
“You show no regard or compassion for your four youngest children, who shudder in terror when they are around you.
“Because you are incapable of understanding the harm you have caused to my family, you will never be able to comprehend it.
“You have turned those closest to me into a never-ending hell,” the teenager went on.”You can tell the world and yourself anything you want, but eventually the truth will surface.”
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