At just 29, George Lazenby became the youngest actor to play James Bond, starring in the 1969 film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. His sudden rise to worldwide fame thrust him into a glamorous, fast-paced life. Lazenby later revealed that the attention from women was overwhelming, attributing it to the more relaxed social norms of the 1960s that made it easier for women to approach him.
Though known as a ladies’ man, Lazenby married twice. His first marriage to Christina Townson Gannett lasted from 1971 to 1995, despite him admitting he was involved with four other women when they met. In 2002, he wed tennis star Pam Shriver; they separated in 2011 but remain close. He once shared that Shriver gifted him a BMW on their fourth date—a lavish symbol of their early romance.
Now in his 80s, Lazenby reflects on his life with humor and honesty. From humble beginnings, he became a multimillionaire and still sees himself as a “ladies’ man,” though he candidly calls himself “a sexist one,” holding some controversial opinions about young women dating older men for financial security. Despite his bravado, he admits to bouts of loneliness, often eased by a drink.
More than his public persona, Lazenby treasures his role as a father and grandfather. With seven children, he regards them as his true legacy and strives to stay close to them even while traveling. Residing in Santa Monica, he enjoys golf and quiet, meaningful family time.
His life hasn’t been without tragedy. The death of his son Zachary at 19 from a brain tumor deeply impacted him, strengthening his bond with his remaining children and grandchildren. As a single man surrounded by loved ones, Lazenby’s story reminds us that behind the charm and celebrity, family and love are what truly matter most.
