George Lazenby, James Bond actor, referring to acting profession, is retired.
In a James Bond film, George Lazenby played the famous secret agent. But the role changed his life. Now the 84-year-old wants to retire.
He had only a one-time chance to carry the famous license to kill, yet he became immortal with it. In 1969, George Lazenby donned the iconic role of James Bond in the film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The former model, with no acting experience, became the immediate successor to the original 007, Sean Connery. Lazenby co-starred with “The Avengers” star Diana Rigg and “Kojak” Telly Savalas. “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” as the film is originally titled, is considered a classic and one of the best James Bond films today. However, Lazenby turned down a contract for further appearances as 007, as he admitted in interviews. He later regretted this decision.
Now, George Lazenby, 84, wants to step back. The Australian announced on social media that he would completely withdraw from the public eye. “I will no longer act or make public appearances, no more interviews or sign autographs,” the actor wrote on Facebook, X, and Instagram. “It was fun, but with age, it’s no longer fun.”
His withdrawal from public life was not an easy decision, Lazenby explained, but it was time for retirement now. “Now I can spend more time with my family,” he wrote. “My heartfelt thanks go out to all of you for your love and support over the years. It meant a lot to me.”
“It’s not easy to get old”
In November of last year, the 84-year-old fell in his home in Los Angeles and suffered head injuries. After a hospital stay, he recovered at home. “It’s not easy to get old,” his manager explained afterwards, “but at 84, George has shown what a fighter he is.” Whether his withdrawal from public life is related to the fall is not known.
After rejecting the Bond role, Lazenby’s big acting career faded away. However, 007 continued to shape his life. Until recently, he regularly appeared as a guest star at James Bond events worldwide. Ultimately, he participated in a documentary about the famous secret agent. The film “Becoming Bond” from 2017, a mix of film and documentary, tells his story with a wink.
After becoming famous as James Bond, Lazenby still attended film premieres and fan events and enjoyed his role in Hollywood’s entertainment scene. Despite not having reprised his role as 007, the film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” remains a celebrated part of the James Bond film series.
George Lazenby’s retirement from acting and public appearances has left a gap in the world of spy literature and fandom, especially among James Bond fans. His lasting legacy as a cult hero of one of the most popular film franchises will continue to captivate audiences.
