25 Mind-Blowing James Bond Facts You Need To Know
17. The Actors Who Nearly Played Bond
Over 50 years after the launch of the Bond franchise, millions of people still believe Sean Connery is the best James Bond. He is so charming and effortlessly suave in the role, it's hard to picture anyone else depicting the character in Dr. No or Goldfinger. However, the producers first choice for the role was Cary Grant. Grant was interested in the part but said he would only accept the role if he was contracted not to star in a sequel.
When Adam West finished playing the title character in the 1966 tv series, Batman, he was strongly considered to play Bond in On Her Majesty's Secret Service.
Clint Eastwood was offered the lead role in Live and Let Die but he turned it down because he believed the character should be played by an Englishman.
After Roger Moore retired from the franchise, Sam Neill, Mel Gibson, and Sean Bean auditioned for the lead role.
Before Pierce Brosnan won the role in GoldenEye, Hugh Grant was the number one contender for Bond. Christian Bale was offered the part but he turned it down because he "already played a serial killer".
Before Daniel Craig was cast for Casino Royale, Clive Owen was rumoured to being the new Bond. In reality, the producers never considered him. Gerald Butler turned down the role because he didn't want to be typecast. If Craig said no to Casino Royale, James Bond would have been played by Henry Cavill.