James Bond Casting History: How Media Covered Past 007 Reveals
“Sean Connery, chosen to play Bond on the screen, had better be good.” November 3 marks the 65th anniversary of the announcement of Sean Connery’s casting as the big screen’s first James Bond – and it turns out people were complaining about Bond casting even back then.
James Bond casting history reveals a long line of media scrutiny throughout the last 65 years. As we await the casting of James Bond 26, let's take a closer look at how media reported on past Bond actors, from Sean Connery to Daniel Craig.
Sean Connery's casting in 1961 sparked controversy, as the Scottish actor was relatively unknown and initially branded as an "unknown" in the press. People were intrigued, as Connery's portrayal of Bond would become a global phenomenon.
George Lazenby, who replaced Connery in 1968, faced even harsher criticism. The media highlighted Lazenby's lack of acting experience and his background as a male model, emphasizing the unenviable task he had in following Connery. Lazenby's brief tenure as Bond led to a docudrama chronicling his time in the role.
Roger Moore, known for his work in TV shows like The Saint and The Persuaders, was announced as Bond in 1972. With his fame already established, Moore faced minimal controversy, though the press still referred to him as a "TV actor" back then. This term was often used to disparage actors who transitioned from TV to film.
Timothy Dalton, cast in 1986, was a Shakespearean actor and the first to be compared to Ian Fleming's literary version of Bond. Dalton followed Moore's tenure, making two Bond films before retiring. Dalton's Bond was often considered more serious and faithful to the novels, setting the stage for future interpretations.
Pierce Brosnan's casting in 1994 marked a significant moment in Bond history, as he became the first actor to play Bond for a decade. Brosnan, who had previously starred in the TV series Remington Steele, brought a fresh perspective to the role, distancing himself from Dalton's more serious portrayal.
Daniel Craig's casting in 2005 generated a great deal of criticism, with headlines often referring to him as "James Bland." Despite the skepticism, Craig's performance in Casino Royale brought a new level of depth and humanity to the role, leading to successful sequels. The legacy of Bond casting continues to evolve, with each actor leaving their mark on the iconic character.
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