Charles Dance, renowned for his role in *Game of Thrones*, has expressed no regrets about declining the opportunity to audition for the iconic role of James Bond. The actor, known for his commanding presence, believes he would not have been ready for such a significant character.
In an interview with *The Daily Telegraph*, Dance revealed that he was advised by his agent against pursuing the role due to concerns about being typecast. “She may have been right,” he said. “Although I also wasn’t ready for Bond. I had the confidence but not the experience; I would have f***** it up.”
Dance, whose acting career began with the 1981 film *For Your Eyes Only*, which starred Sir Roger Moore as 007, also portrayed Bond’s creator in the 1989 television movie *Goldeneye: The Secret Life of Ian Fleming*. Despite the missed opportunity, he remains a prominent figure in the industry.
On the Subject of Red Hair
When asked about the potential for a red-haired James Bond, Dance responded positively, stating, “I don’t see why not.” He recounted an experience from his time portraying Maxim de Winter in a 1997 adaptation of *Rebecca*, where he was told a ginger character was not feasible. “Why on earth not? It’s ridiculous,” he remarked, challenging the industry’s traditional views.
At 78 years old, Dance holds a firm belief that “actors shouldn’t retire.” While he acknowledges that securing roles becomes more challenging with age, he insists that experienced performers are essential for portraying older characters. He commented, “If we retired, there’d be nobody to play old, wrinkly people. You have to keep going.”
Embracing Challenges in Acting
Dance addressed concerns about stamina, particularly as he continues to take on demanding roles. He shared with *Metro* that maintaining fitness is crucial. “You have to work that much harder, the older you get,” he explained. “I just have to make sure that I take the right amount of exercise and look after myself.”
Despite facing difficulties on various sets, including the production of *Godzilla: King of the Monsters*, which he described as “not a great film,” Dance remains committed to his craft. Reflecting on a year spent away from London living in Somerset, he confessed that the experience of witnessing the changing seasons left him feeling unsettled. “The first couple of months it was out of choice. And then after that, nothing was happening. And I thought, ‘Ooh, I don’t like this at all.'”
Dance’s candid reflections offer insight into the mindset of a seasoned actor who continues to navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry while embracing the challenges that come with age.
