How Roger Moore’s Decision Blocked James Brolin from Becoming James Bond

In the early 1980s, the James Bond franchise nearly saw a significant shift with an American actor, James Brolin, stepping into the iconic role. Following Roger Moore’s initial decision to leave the series after “For Your Eyes Only,” producers Albert R. ‘Cubby’ Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson began searching for a new 007, with Brolin emerging as a top contender for the film that would become “Octopussy.”

The Near-Casting of an American Bond

James Brolin, fresh from the success of “The Amityville Horror,” was formally considered for the part. According to a 2025 interview with People, Brolin recalled flying to the UK, meeting the production team, and even beginning work with the stunt crew. He stated that Broccoli had hired him, though no contract had been signed. The process was halted abruptly when Brolin returned to Los Angeles to prepare for the year-long shoot, only to receive a call informing him that Roger Moore had decided to return for one more film.

Brolin’s candidacy progressed far enough that he completed a screen test, which director John Glen described as “excellent” in the documentary “Inside Octopussy.” Another actor, Michael Billington, also screen-tested for the role alongside Maud Adams.

The Contract Negotiations Behind the Scenes

Roger Moore’s involvement had been contractually fluid for several films. His initial agreement was for three pictures. After completing those, he negotiated on a film-by-film basis for “Moonraker” and “For Your Eyes Only.” For a time, it appeared “For Your Eyes Only” would be his finale, prompting the search for a replacement. Director John Glen characterized the situation as “a continuing game” of negotiations between Broccoli, Moore, and the studio. Ultimately, these talks resulted in Moore’s return for “Octopussy.”

Glen also suggested that Broccoli’s instincts played a final role, noting the producer was not inclined to cast an American as James Bond. Despite not being considered a top-tier entry, “Octopussy” was a commercial success, outperforming the rival Bond film “Never Say Never Again” starring Sean Connery.

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