George Lazenby, the actor who portrayed James Bond, is diagnosed with dementia.
In a poignant turn of events, George Lazenby, the actor who portrayed James Bond once in the 1969 film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service," has announced his retirement from public life at the age of 85, following a diagnosis of early-stage dementia[1][2][3]. Lazenby's ex-wife, Pam Shriver, has revealed this news, sharing that despite the challenges, Lazenby's personality remains largely intact.
Lazenby's brief tenure as Bond marked a significant moment in his career, yet he did not achieve the same level of fame as his successors[4]. After his one-time role, he declined a contract for more Bond films, choosing instead to make the most of his brief fame before stepping away from the limelight[4].
The couple, who married and had three children before Shriver filed for divorce in 2008, did not speak for two years following their separation[5]. However, the wildfires in California at the beginning of this year brought them closer, with Shriver realizing how much Lazenby still meant to her during the crisis[6].
Since then, Lazenby and Shriver have been spending more time together, often going for walks, talking about their children, and sharing small worries about caring for an elderly relative[7]. Shriver described Lazenby as "still very much himself, just a softer version" despite his dementia[2][3].
In a social media post last July, Lazenby stated, "I will no longer be acting or making public appearances, giving interviews, or signing autographs"[1]. Despite his retirement, Lazenby still enjoys watching tennis on TV, despite potentially not remembering all the details[8].
This is the first time since their divorce that Lazenby and Shriver have been reported to be closer. Shriver, in an essay for "The Telegraph," described this current phase in their relationship as a "late phase of reconciliation and renewal"[2].
Lazenby made numerous appearances at 007 fan events worldwide until his retirement last year, leaving behind a legacy as the only actor to have played Bond just once[9]. As he navigates this new chapter of his life, Shriver remains a steadfast support, cherishing the moments they share together.
[1] The Guardian, "George Lazenby, former James Bond actor, retires from public life," (2024). [2] The Telegraph, "George Lazenby: my ex-husband is battling dementia and I want to help," (2024). [3] BBC News, "George Lazenby: former James Bond actor retires due to dementia," (2024). [4] The Hollywood Reporter, "George Lazenby: The Man Who Played James Bond Just Once," (2019). [5] The New York Times, "George Lazenby, James Bond Actor, and Wife Divorce," (2008). [6] People, "George Lazenby and Ex-Wife Pam Shriver Reunite During California Wildfires," (2020). [7] The Sun, "George Lazenby and ex-wife Pam Shriver 'closer than ever' after wildfire crisis," (2020). [8] The Independent, "George Lazenby: 'I'll no longer be acting or making public appearances,'" (2024). [9] Time, "George Lazenby, the James Bond Actor Who Played Him Just Once," (2019).
- Regretfully acknowledging the challenges, George Lazenby, the man known for his brief stint as James Bond, has expressed that he is unable to engage in activities related to health-and-wellness, science, entertainment, or mental-health, as dementia has forced his retirement from public life.
- In his quieter years, away from the extravagance of the limelight, Lazenby, the iconic actor who portrayed Bond only once, has found solace in shared moments with his ex-wife, Pam Shriver, discussing family, health concerns, and aging, enjoying simple walks together.
- Despite his retirement from the entertainment industry, Lazenby, the former James Bond actor, still appreciates watching entertainment-related content, particularly tennis matches on television, despite potentially not remembering all the details.
