9 Actors You Had No Idea Almost Played James Bond
6. Terence Stamp
Terence Stamp's ability to play totally severe, inscrutable characters has landed him roles in everything from Star Wars to Superman. It's tough to imagine the guy who played General Zod suiting up for Bond, but believe it or not, it could have happened.
When looking for a replacement for Sean Connery, Stamp was taken for dinner by Bond producer Harry Saltzman, where he was told he completely fitted the bill. Specifically, Saltzman commended Stamp's physical fitness and thick English accent.
What derailed the whole thing (at least, according to Stamp) was his radical suggestion for helping audiences forget Connery's role. Stamp's plan was to begin the new Bond film with Bond "disguised as a Japanese warrior", "in complete Japanese make-up".
Understandly, Saltzman wasn't particularly impressed with the idea, and Stamp never heard back about the role.