George Lazenby, who is best known for playing James Bond just once in the 1969 movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, has announced that he’s retiring from acting at the age of 84.
Lazenby Retires
Lazenby announced his retirement on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.
“This hasn’t been an easy decision but it’s time to announce my retirement from work,” he wrote. “Therefore, I won’t be doing any more acting or making public appearances, doing any more interviews or signing any more autographs as of today. It’s been a fun ride but getting older is not fun.”
Here is what he had to say:
Fans were quick to respond with messages of support for Lazenby.
“I wish you a restful, enjoyable retirement. You’ve more than earned it,” one fan commented, with another adding, “Thank you for everything George! Enjoy your well earned retirement.”
“Enjoy retirement my friend. After all of these years it is well deserved,” a third fan commented. Another person wrote, “Best wishes on your retirement George.”
Related: Clint Eastwood Reveals Why He Turned Down Playing James Bond After Sean Connery
Lazenby’s History
Lazenby, who hails from Australia, was just the second actor to play James Bond. He took over the role after Sean Connery departed the series. At the time of his casting, Lazenby had only acted in commercials. Incredibly, he was paid just $50,000 for his work as Bond.
Lazenby ended up only playing Bond in one movie, opting out of future turns as Agent 007. Connery then returned to the role for Diamonds Are Forever in 1971 before Roger Moore took it over.
It should be noted that while Lazenby only played Bond once, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is widely considered to be one of the best James Bond movies of all time. Lazenby starred in the movie alongside the late great Diana Rigg.
After playing Bond, Lazenby would go on to star in movies like Universal Soldier (1971), The Man From Hong Kong (1975), and The Kentucky Fried Movie (1977). He also appeared in television shows like Hawaii Five-O, General Hospital, and Baywatch.
Related: Mark Wahlberg In Talks To Become The New ‘Working Class James Bond’
Lazenby’s Health Issues
Lazenby has sadly suffered from some health issues as of late. Back in December, his representative revealed that he’d been rushed to the hospital after suffering a brain injury from a fall the month before. Lazenby then had to spend some time in a nursing home to recuperate.
“I’m very happy to report our client George Lazenby has safely returned home,” his rep said at the time. “After an accidental fall at home in November leading to a head injury, he’s rehabilitated well thanks to the great team at Beverly West Healthcare for which I, his family and friends are grateful for.”
“Not easy getting old but at 84, George has certainly demonstrated what a fighter he is,” the rep added. “Love and only love.”
This has clearly been a very difficult time for Lazenby. Please join us in saying a prayer for him as he enters the retirement phase of his life!
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