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October 12, 2023 | Theatre,
What do you know about James Bond?
Which superspy has been the protagonist of 14 books, 25 movies, and has been played by 12 different actors? It’s none other than James Bond, whose charismatic personality and famous stealth has entertained audiences for more than 70 years. Curious to learn more about Bond and his origins? Check out these 10 facts about the legendary secret agent:
1. James Bond was first introduced to readers in Ian Fleming’s 1953 novel Casino Royale, which was partly inspired by the author’s service in Naval Intelligence during World War II.
2. President John F. Kennedy was a huge fan of the Bond franchise and even held an early screening party of From Russia with Love at the White House.
3. Five Bond films have won an Oscar – Goldfinger (Best Sound Effects), Thunderball (Best Visual Effects), Skyfall (Best Original Song and Best Sound Editing), Spectre (Best Original Song), No Time To Die (Best Original Song).
4. The shaken-not-stirred martini is famously Bond’s drink of choice, but he has another well-known relationship with a beverage: 007 has a decades-long disdain of tea.
5. The Bond films are the longest-produced franchise, with the first film, Dr. No, being released in 1962.
6. Ian Fleming was initially hesitant to have Sean Connery play the titular role, as he thought he was too gruff and not as gentlemanly as the literary character, but eventually came around.
7. Bond’s code number, 007, was assigned by Fleming in reference to one of British naval intelligence’s key achievements of the First World War: the breaking of the German diplomatic code.
8. Adjusting for inflation, the Bond film series has earned over $19.2 billion from box-office receipts alone.
9. The character of James Bond became 007 at age 38, the same age Daniel Craig was when he landed the role for Casino Royale in 2006.
10. James Bond was inspired by Dominican playboy, diplomat, soldier, and race car driver, Porfirio Rubirosa, who was known for his suave personality and jetsetting lifestyle!
You can learn more about this inspiration for James Bond and the history of Porfirio Rubirosa in The Real James Bond…Was Dominican, running at the Emerson Paramount Center Robert J. Orchard Stage from November 8-12. Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone, or in person at the box office.
Interesting facts.
Have you checked ‘longest running’ against Sherlock Holmes and Tarzan? They were/are pretty long running as well.