10 Actors Who Quit Major Film Roles
1. George Lazenby (Diamonds Are Forever)
Despite what some might think, George Lazenby wasn't made to relinquish his role as James Bond so MGM could bring Sean Connery back after On Her Majesty's Secret Service underwhelmed. He hung up the tuxedo and Walther PPK of his own accord.
The Australian model-turned-actor was originally offered a seven-movie contract, but cut his 007 tenure short on the advice of his agent, who told him the new American auteur cinema of the late 1960s as the future, and Bond the past.
Several other actors were considered before the studio turned to Connery again, including Adam West and Burt Reynolds. A firm offer was made for Michael Gambon, but he turned the part down because he was "in terrible shape".
Lazenby should probably have fired his agent based on their prediction that Bond had no life left in it, but at least his sole 007 outing is viewed positively in hindsight and favourably compared to the Daniel Craig films for its attempt to humanise the iconic spy.