You Only Audition Once: Which actors came close to being cast as James Bond?
James Bond is one of Hollywood’s most coveted roles, and some very famous actors came close to playing 007. As we wait for the identity of the seventh actor to land the role, here's a look back at the Bonds we never got.
Here is a summary of the actors who auditioned for the role of James Bond, based on the source material:
Several potential Bond actors have come and gone over the years. Cary Grant was initially considered for the first 007 film Dr. No in 1962, but turned it down stating he was too old. Michael Caine was offered the role in 1967 but rejected it because he felt the character was too glamorous for his ordinary style. Clint Eastwood declined an offer in the 1970s, believing Bond should be British.
Michael Gambon auditioned for diamonds Are Forever in 1971 but said he was not good-looking enough. Michael Billington auditioned three times for the role between 1969-1973 but was never selected. Roger Moore's successor was mired in debate - Josh Brolin was considered for Octopussy in 1983 before Moore decided to return. Sam Neill was another early favorite, auditioning for the role but Timothy Dalton was chosen instead.
Mel Gibson and Liam Neeson were also floated as possible replacements for Moore, with Neeson even giving his girlfriend an ultimatum if he took the part. Sean Bean made two screen tests for Bond but lost out to Dalton and Brosnan. Finally, before becoming M, Ralph Fiennes was approached to play Bond in the early 1990s.
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