Christopher Lee reveals Ian Fleming`s original choice for James Bond role

James Bond creator Ian Fleming originally wanted James Mason to play the suave spy - says Christopher Lee.

The actor who played Francisco Scaramanga in "The Man With The Golden Gun", and who counted Fleming as a cousin, is convinced Bond has never been captured on screen properly - and wishes Fleming had been allowed to cast the "North By North West" actor.

Lee says, "I know who Ian thought was the best person to play Bond: James Mason, who would have been marvelous.

"He had all the right qualities. I don't think anyone has ever succeeded in putting Ian Fleming's James Bond up on the screen.

"The closest in my opinion is Pierce Brosnan", Lee added (click to read previous interview).

Thanks to `Ken` for the alert.

Discuss this news here...