When Dr. No premiered in 1962, it introduced James Bond to the world and launched one of cinema’s most iconic franchises. Sean Connery became the face of 007, but the role almost went to Cary Grant, whose salary demands and one-film commitment made him unavailable.
Even Ian Fleming, Bond’s creator, was skeptical of Connery at first, preferring a polished English gentleman. After seeing the final cut, Fleming was so impressed that he added Scottish ancestry to Bond’s backstory.
Other casting surprises? Christopher Lee was considered for the villain, Dr. No, before Joseph Wiseman landed the role. From behind-the-scenes quirks to casting “what-ifs,” Dr. No is full of fascinating stories that shaped the Bond legacy.
