James Bond, the iconic British spy, has been a beloved figure in pop culture for decades. When Sean Connery stepped down from the role after five movies, the search for the next Bond became a critical moment in cinematic history. In 1967, LIFE magazine sent photographer Loomis Dean to capture the auditions for the James Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The auditions featured five top candidates vying for the coveted role, including George Lazenby, who eventually won the hearts of decision-makers. In this article, we delve into the auditions, explore the impact of George Lazenby’s casting, and examine the enduring legacy of the James Bond franchise.

Key Takeaways

• The auditions for “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” showcased the intense search for the next James Bond, a role that holds immense cultural significance. George Lazenby’s physicality and charisma stood out among the contenders, ultimately securing him the coveted role.
• “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” marked a turning point in the Bond franchise, proving that the character could be successfully portrayed by different actors, each bringing their unique interpretation to the role.
• The enduring appeal of the James Bond franchise can be attributed to its ability to evolve and adapt, offering a winning formula of action, intrigue, and romance, all centered around the enigmatic spy.

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In the early 1960s, the world was introduced to a suave British spy named James Bond, immortalized by Sean Connery. However, when Connery decided to step away from the iconic role after five movies, the hunt for the next 007 was on. In 1967, LIFE magazine sent photographer Loomis Dean to capture the casting sessions for the James Bond movie “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” While some of the audition photos were published, others remained hidden until now, revealing the five top candidates vying for the coveted role of Bond. Let’s take a closer look at these auditions and the fascinating journey that led to the discovery of the ultimate choice, George Lazenby.

James Bond: The Cultural Icon

Before we delve into the auditions, let’s appreciate the cultural significance of James Bond. Created by author Ian Fleming, the suave and charismatic secret agent became a pop culture phenomenon, captivating audiences worldwide with his thrilling adventures, glamorous lifestyle, and charm. With the departure of Sean Connery, the search for the new face of Bond became a critical moment in cinematic history.

The Auditions Unveiled

The auditions captured by Loomis Dean in 1967 offer a fascinating glimpse into the selection process for the iconic role. Let’s explore the five top candidates who were in the running to fill Connery’s shoes.

1. George Lazenby: From Model to 007

Among the contenders, George Lazenby stood out, despite his relative obscurity as a 28-year-old Australian model living in London with minimal acting experience. What he lacked in acting credits, he compensated for with his remarkable physical prowess. During one of the auditions, Lazenby’s fighting skills were put to the test, resulting in him breaking a stuntman’s nose. His physicality and charisma impressed the decision-makers, and Lazenby would eventually secure the role that would define his career.

2. John Richardson: The Unforgettable Audition

Another contender, John Richardson, left a lasting impression during his audition. Directed by Peter R. Hunt, he engaged in a test love scene with an actress, showcasing his acting range and on-screen chemistry. Though he did not clinch the Bond role, Richardson continued his acting career, starring in several notable films.

3. Anthony Rogers: Smoking Hot Candidate

During his audition, Anthony Rogers exuded suave sophistication, epitomizing the essence of James Bond. Seen confidently smoking a cigarette while chatting with director Peter R. Hunt, Rogers brought his unique charm to the audition. Although he didn’t secure the role, his audition remains a captivating moment in Bond history.

4. Robert Campbell: The Mirror Scene

Robert Campbell’s audition involved a scene where he meticulously adjusted his shirt and jacket while studying his reflection in the mirror. This attention to detail demonstrated his commitment to the role, but it wasn’t enough to land him the part.

5. Hans De Vries: The Unforgettable Screen Test

Finally, Hans De Vries impressed during his screen test opposite actress France Anglade. Their chemistry was palpable, but ultimately, the role of Bond was not meant to be for De Vries.

The Lazenby Legacy

In the end, George Lazenby emerged as the chosen one, donning the iconic tuxedo and delivering one of the most memorable performances as James Bond. Despite initial skepticism, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” has stood the test of time, earning praise from critics and securing its place as one of the top Bond films.

Bond: A Cinematic Legacy

The James Bond film franchise has become a cultural institution, with over 20 feature films and a massive global fanbase. The suave secret agent has endured through the decades, portrayed by various actors, each bringing their unique interpretation to the character.

FAQ

1. What qualities were the filmmakers looking for in the next James Bond?

The filmmakers sought a candidate who could embody the essence of James Bond—a suave, sophisticated, and charismatic British spy. They desired someone with a magnetic screen presence, capable of captivating audiences with their charm and wit. Additionally, physical prowess was crucial, as Bond’s action sequences are an integral part of the franchise. While acting experience was a consideration, they were also open to newcomers who could bring a fresh perspective to the role. Ultimately, the chosen actor needed to exude confidence and authenticity to make the character their own while staying true to the iconic Bond image.

2. Why did George Lazenby stand out among the contenders?

George Lazenby’s standout quality was his physicality and presence. Despite lacking substantial acting experience, he compensated with an athletic and powerful demeanor, which resonated with the filmmakers. His audition demonstrated that he could handle the action-packed scenes with ease and authenticity. Moreover, Lazenby’s natural charm and charisma shone through, making him a convincing and captivating Bond. The decision-makers saw in him the potential to redefine the character while staying true to the essence of James Bond.

3. How did the audition process unfold?

The audition process for “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” involved various stages to evaluate the candidates thoroughly. Initially, potential Bonds were asked to showcase their physical abilities, participating in action sequences and fight tests. This phase helped identify candidates who could embody the physically demanding aspects of the role. Next, the actors engaged in screen tests with potential Bond girls to assess their chemistry and acting skills. Throughout the process, the filmmakers were keen on finding someone who could carry the weight of the iconic character and deliver a performance that would resonate with audiences worldwide.

4. What impact did George Lazenby’s casting have on the franchise?

George Lazenby’s casting was met with skepticism initially, given his limited acting background and the immense shoes he had to fill after Sean Connery’s departure. However, Lazenby’s portrayal of Bond in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” received praise for its raw and vulnerable approach to the character. While he only played Bond once, his contribution to the franchise was significant. By proving that someone other than Connery could convincingly embody the iconic spy, Lazenby’s performance opened the door for future actors to take on the role, ensuring the longevity and versatility of the James Bond franchise.

5. How did the casting process impact the subsequent Bond films?

The casting process for “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” set a precedent for future Bond films. It demonstrated that the role was not limited to one actor and that fresh faces could bring new dimensions to the character. Subsequent Bond films explored different interpretations of the iconic spy, showcasing a range of acting talents over the years. This approach allowed the franchise to evolve and adapt to changing times while maintaining its core identity. The casting process for this film marked the beginning of a tradition of reinvention, ensuring the James Bond character remained relevant and captivating to audiences worldwide.

6. Were there any memorable moments from the auditions?

During the auditions, John Richardson’s test love scene overseen by director Peter R. Hunt became a memorable moment. The scene showcased Richardson’s acting range and chemistry with the actress, providing a glimpse into the potential for a compelling on-screen romance. Additionally, George Lazenby’s audition where he effortlessly twirled a gun beside a potential Bond girl, Marie-France Boyer, was a standout moment. This playful and charismatic gesture highlighted Lazenby’s ability to bring a unique flair to the character of James Bond.

7. How did the critical reception of “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” impact George Lazenby’s acting career?

The critical reception of “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” was mixed, with some reviewers noting Lazenby’s inexperience as a hindrance. While the film received praise for its action sequences and emotional depth, critics also drew comparisons to Sean Connery’s iconic portrayal. As a result, Lazenby faced challenges in his acting career after his one-off Bond appearance. However, over time, his performance gained appreciation from Bond enthusiasts, and Lazenby’s contribution to the franchise has been reevaluated more positively. Despite not continuing as Bond, Lazenby’s performance paved the way for other actors to take on the role, solidifying his place in Bond history.

8. What made the James Bond franchise endure for decades?

The longevity of the James Bond franchise can be attributed to its ability to evolve and adapt. Each Bond film offers a unique blend of action, intrigue, and romance, appealing to a wide audience. The character of James Bond itself is an enduring cultural icon, representing the epitome of the suave and sophisticated spy. Moreover, the franchise’s commitment to top-notch production values, exotic locations, and cutting-edge technology has kept it relevant and exciting across generations. Bond films have consistently pushed the boundaries of action cinema while staying true to the core elements that define the character.

9. How did the auditions influence subsequent Bond casting decisions?

The auditions for “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” set a precedent for future casting decisions in the Bond franchise. They showed that a diverse range of actors could bring their interpretation to the role while maintaining the quintessential qualities of James Bond. The success of George Lazenby’s casting demonstrated that newcomers with the right charisma and talent could successfully carry the franchise forward. As a result, the subsequent casting of actors like Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig further solidified the notion that each Bond actor could put their unique stamp on the character, keeping the franchise fresh and exciting for generations to come.

10. What legacy did “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” leave on the Bond franchise?

“On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” left a lasting legacy on the Bond franchise. It showcased the audacity of casting a relatively unknown actor in the iconic role and proved that a single film could make a significant impact. George Lazenby’s portrayal provided a blueprint for future actors, demonstrating the importance of balance between physicality, charm, and acting skill in portraying James Bond. The film’s emotional depth and tragic storyline also added a new layer to the character, influencing subsequent Bond films’ exploration of Bond’s personal life. Overall, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” remains a pivotal film in the Bond canon, earning its place as a classic in the legendary franchise.