Australian actor and former model George Lazenby was the second of six actors to play the iconic role of British secret agent James Bond 007. Born and raised in regional New South Wales, George served in the Australian Army special forces and worked as a car mechanic before being scouted by a talent agent who convinced him to try his hand at modelling.

In the midst of a flourishing career as one of the world's top models but having only acted in commercials until that point, George managed to secure the part of James Bond in the sixth Bond film, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), replacing Sir Sean Connery. Despite the film’s success at the box office, George declined the offer to star in a further six Bond films, opting instead to act in a number of other films before moving on to a career in business and real estate. 

George Lazenby | Photography: Azabra

It has now been 60 years since the first Bond film, Dr. No (1962), was released. To celebrate this special anniversary, Concertworks is touring a spectacular four-city concert featuring all your favourite songs from the movies. The Music of James Bond will combine the talents of WASO musicians led by maestro Nicholas Buc, special guest vocalists Bonnie Anderson (The Masked Singer, Australia's Got Talent) and Luke Kennedy (The Voice, Jesus Christ Superstar), and George Lazenby himself, who will be interviewed live on stage!

In the lead-up to this exciting event, we spoke to George about what to expect from the upcoming show, his reaction to learning he got the part of James Bond and some special memories from on set.

This show has got it all – a live orchestra, two brilliant vocalists and an original James Bond! What are you most excited for audiences to experience? 

My movie is over 50 years old but the thing that lasts, apart from me, is the music. I read somewhere that John Barry’s music was to the Bond films what hair was to Samson and I think that’s pretty good. But the music in all the Bond films really gives them that edge. So to hear this music live will stir up some memories and emotions in me, and in audiences, that will mean a lot to generations. Plus I’ll be home in Australia which is going to be powerful for me. I’m excited for the feelings this music is going to bring out in me and in those lucky enough to attend.  

On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) | Source: IMDb

There are so many iconic James Bond songs, from the original theme from Dr. No, to Louis Armstrong’s 'We Have All the Time in the World' from your movie, to Adele’s chart-topping theme from Skyfall. What’s your personal favourite song from the films?  

Well, it’s no accident that Daniel Craig’s last movie (No Time To Die) used my movie’s music and song. Louis Armstrong was that age then that I am now so those lyrics and that voice resonate with me. Back then I was more into rock and really appreciated the music scene in London at the time. I hung out with The Beatles, Bee Gees and Keith Moon to name a few. But the music and song from my movie seem to have lasted: it really does have all the time in the world.  

James Bond was your breakout acting role. Can you remember how you felt when you found out you’d secured the part? 

After months of auditioning, training, getting fitted up for the part, I guess it was a relief. But I was always very confident and had no fear. I was up for anything in those days. But getting the part was just the start. I had to be kept hidden from the press before the big announcement. Then making the movie was a trip. Then all the publicity. As I said, getting the part was just the start. But I never looked back, never hesitated. Not for one second.  

Can you tell us any special memories or funny moments from the James Bond set? 

My Bond lady was the late Diana Rigg and she was everything a top spy could be: sexy, tough, sassy and able to look after herself. She even saved me a couple of times! Working with her was special.  

George Lazenby and Diana Rigg | Source: George Lazenby - Official Website

You’re based in Los Angeles at the moment but are originally from New South Wales. Aside from the show, what are you looking forward to doing when you visit Australia? 

I have a lot of family here so I’m looking forward to catching up with them in person. The pandemic has meant I haven’t seen everyone since March 2020. I enjoy a game of golf every now and then too. As you get older, you begin to appreciate your roots. I’m still as Australian as I ever was.

Don’t miss The Music of James Bond at Perth Concert Hall on Saturday 10 September, 7:30pm. Find tickets and more information.