Famous Actors Who Rejected the Chance to Become James Bond

Over the years, the role of James Bond has attracted a myriad of actors, many of whom turned down the chance to portray the iconic spy. This article explores the famous actors who rejected the opportunity to become James Bond and the complex decisions behind their refusals.

The History of James Bond Casting

The casting journey of James Bond is filled with intrigue and notable choices. Each actor’s decision impacts the legacy of this beloved character. Below are some of the most notable instances of actors who declined the role.

Roger Moore and Timothy Dalton

• Roger Moore was approached to take over from Sean Connery in 1967 after “You Only Live Twice.”
• Due to his role in “The Saint,” Moore couldn’t accept the offer at that time.
• He eventually portrayed Bond after George Lazenby and Connery’s brief returns.

• Timothy Dalton was considered for the role at age 21 but felt inexperienced.
• He finally became Bond at 41 in “The Living Daylights.”

Pierce Brosnan’s Wait

Pierce Brosnan also faced delays in stepping into the iconic role. Initially, he was expected to take on Bond during the production of “Remington Steele.” However, due to his television commitments, Brosnan’s entry into the franchise was postponed. He ultimately became the face of Bond after Dalton’s movies.

Noteworthy Rejections

Several high-profile actors have also turned down the opportunity to become James Bond, adding to the speculation surrounding the casting process.

• Hugh Jackman
• Clint Eastwood
• Burt Reynolds
• Liam Neeson

Interestingly, James Brolin was cast in the role, but the offer was later withdrawn. Additionally, many actors auditioned for Bond only to find success in other films.

Clive Owen’s Reluctance

Clive Owen is often mentioned as a potential Bond. However, he declined the offer during discussions for “Casino Royale.” In a candid interview, Owen described the role as “entering a golden prison,” suggesting that he felt incapable of adding a fresh perspective to a well-defined character.

Owen’s decision was influenced by multiple factors. At that time, he was still establishing his career, having worked mainly on smaller projects. Reports indicated that financial negotiations may have also played a role, as he sought a percentage of the profits. However, Owen emphasized that his concerns about the potential career impact were paramount.

Conclusion

The story of James Bond’s casting is a testament to the evolving nature of Hollywood. The actors who have turned down the role reflect on the complexities of fame, identity, and the legacy of one of cinema’s most iconic characters. Their choices continue to influence the perception and evolution of James Bond.