James Bond: this actor was a real spy for 007’s father!

Ian Fleming, the legendary author of the James Bond saga and famous for being part of the British spy services, hardly needs any introduction. The author also modeled his character on the famous actress Cary Grant, whom he idolized in Alfred Hitchcock’s film, Bound.

When the first installment of 007’s cinematic adventures, James Bond vs. Doctor No, was released in 1962, Ian Fleming logically had in mind to see the actor as his model in the impeccably dressed MI5 agent. . With his gentlemanly manners, handsome face and always dressed to the nines, Cary Grant would have played the part perfectly.

Except that the person concerned, who was already 58 years old at the time, turned out to be too old for the role. That said, he was not opposed to playing James Bond, but only for one film. The franchise’s producer, Albert Broccoli, who was also a friend of Grant’s, wanted to sign the actor for five films, which quickly ended the negotiations.

When Sean Connery was finally chosen, Ian Fleming didn’t appreciate the choice to give the role to this 31-year-old Scottish actor with a very rough manner. A choice that went against his idea of ​​the character. He will reconsider his judgment after seeing Connery’s performance, which is absolutely perfect in the role.

Carrie, a real spy

In a delightful twist, it turns out that Cary Grant also played a spy during World War II. A biography published in 1996 by Graham McCann. Cary Grant: A Class ApartIt turned out that the actor was recruited by the British Secret Service during World War II because of “His detailed knowledge of US elites and address book at the highest levels of state”. explained the author.

If Grant wasn’t parachuted behind enemy lines or involved in sabotage operations, his job consisted of gathering information and tracking down colleagues suspected of Nazi sympathies, such as Errol Flynn, a noted sympathizer, or, more interestingly, Gary Cooper. Adolf Hitler adored him after seeing him in The Three Bengals in 1935.