James Bond actor diagnosed with early dementia, says ex-wife
Former James Bond actor George Lazenby has been diagnosed with early dementia, his ex-wife has revealed.
Pam Shriver, has spoken candidly about supporting the former 007 actor as he navigates life with dementia.
Lazenby, now 85, made history as the shortest-tenured Bond, appearing only once in the 1969 film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, after taking over the iconic role from Sean Connery.
Despite his brief time as 007, the Australian actor remains a beloved figure among Bond fans.
Shriver, a former US tennis star, met Lazenby in 2000 at Wimbledon when she was 37. The pair married, had three children – Kait, Sam, and George – and later divorced in 2008.
However, Shriver has remained a close presence in Lazenby’s life.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Shriver revealed that Lazenby is in the “early stages of dementia,” but stressed that his personality still shines through.
“He has dementia, but he is still very much himself,” she shared. “A softer version of himself, perhaps – and this is the key.”
Lazenby had been living in a sheltered housing facility in Pacific Palisades until earlier this year, when wildfires ripped through the Los Angeles area and forced an evacuation.
Shriver recalled the frightening moment she tried to reach him, saying she “became hopelessly gridlocked amid the chaos.”
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“The facility itself did not have transport for residents organised early enough, so thank goodness for the independent caregiver who comes every day to take him for walks.
“She was able to evacuate him, shortly before the Palisades fire had crept up to the doorstep of the facility.”
Following the incident, Lazenby was relocated to an assisted living facility in Santa Monica, where he continues to receive care.
“We go for walks together, chatting about the kids and all the little anxieties which anyone with an older relative will recognise,” Shriver said. “His dementia affects his short-term memory but he tells stories about his younger days.”
Shriver also shared that the pair had discussed legal matters years ago and agreed she would hold “power of attorney” should he ever lose mental capacity.
While Lazenby is “slowing down,” Shriver added: “He always had a great life force and it still burns brightly.”
In February, Lazenby was seen out for a stroll with a walker, just as Amazon announced it was taking full creative control of the Bond franchise.
In July 2024, Lazenby officially retired from acting, telling fans: “It’s been a fun ride but getting older is no fun… My sincere gratitude to everyone out there for your love and support over the years. It has meant a lot to me.”