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Dick Van Dyke Reflects on Regret Over Bond Role

11/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Dick Van Dyke, the actor, declined the James Bond role after producer Albert Broccoli approached him in 1968.
He cited criticism of his British accent from Mary Poppins as the reason.
The role went to George Lazenby for 1969's On Her Majesty's Secret Service.
Van Dyke later said the Bond role would have been a great experience.
He expressed regret over turning down a film opportunity with Cary Grant.

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Story summary

Dick Van Dyke, the actor, declined the James Bond role after producer Albert Broccoli approached him in 1968.
He cited criticism of his British accent from Mary Poppins as the reason.
The role went to George Lazenby for 1969's On Her Majesty's Secret Service.
Van Dyke later said the Bond role would have been a great experience.
He expressed regret over turning down a film opportunity with Cary Grant.