A British actor who played M in the first eleven James Bond films, bringing the iconic character to life on the big screen.
Bernard Lee, a renowned English actor, is best known for his portrayal of M, the head of the British Secret Intelligence Service, in the first eleven Eon-produced James Bond films. This iconic role cemented his status as a household name, earning him a special place in the hearts of Bond fans worldwide.
Born on January 10, 1908, Lee's introduction to the world of acting began at the tender age of six, when his actor father, Edmund James Lee, cast him in a sketch called The Double Event at the Oxford Music Hall in London.
Lee's passion for the craft led him to enroll in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where he honed his skills alongside future stars like Sir Laurence Olivier. To support himself, Lee worked as a fruit porter, sacrificing sleep to attend classes during the day.
Lee's early acting career saw him take to the stage in various thrillers and comedies, including Blind Man's Bluff and Ten Minute Alibi, alongside Arthur Askey. His screen debut came in 1934 with The Double Event, followed by a role in Rhodes of Africa (1936), a biopic of Cecil Rhodes.
During World War II, Lee served in the army between 1940 and 1946. Despite his wartime service, he managed to act in several films released between 1939 and 1943, including Murder in Soho, The Frozen Limits, and Let George Do It (known in the US as To Hell with Hitler).
Lee's film career spanned over four decades, with him appearing in over 100 films. He became synonymous with authority figures, often playing military characters or policemen in films like The Third Man, The Blue Lamp, The Battle of the River Plate, and Whistle Down the Wind.
Of course, his most iconic role was that of M in the James Bond franchise, which he played from 1962's Dr. No to 1979's Moonraker. Lee's M was a steadfast, no-nonsense figure, bringing gravity and depth to the character.
Bernard Lee passed away on January 16, 1981, at the age of 73, due to stomach cancer. He left behind a rich legacy in the world of cinema, with his iconic portrayal of M remaining an integral part of Bond history.
Lee's personal life was marked by his dedication to his craft, as well as his love for his family. He was married to British actress, Gladys Merredew, and had a daughter, Ann, who also became an actress.
Bernard Lee's remarkable career serves as a testament to his talent, dedication, and enduring legacy in the world of cinema. His iconic portrayal of M remains an integral part of the James Bond franchise, forever etched in the hearts of fans worldwide.
81 Years Old
A Swedish model and actress who played Bond girls in two James Bond films, including the titular role in Octopussy, and appeared in numerous other films and TV shows.
98 Years Old
A debonair actor who played the iconic role of James Bond in seven films, bringing charm and wit to the character, and also starred in the popular TV series "The Saint".
95 Years Old
A legendary actor and producer who brought iconic characters to life, including the first and most iconic James Bond, in a career spanning over six decades.
58 Years Old
Star of the James Bond film franchise, known for his rugged and nuanced portrayal of the iconic secret agent.
91 Years Old
A renowned actress celebrated for her iconic performances on stage and screen, particularly as M in the James Bond film series and her numerous Shakespearean roles.
Born in 1914
A Welsh-English soldier and actor, best known for playing Q in the James Bond film series, bringing clever gadgets and wit to the iconic spy franchise.
99 Years Old
A Canadian-Australian model and actress who played Miss Moneypenny in the James Bond film series, charming audiences with her wit and sophistication. She also had a successful modeling career, appearing on numerous magazine covers.
