Icons Unearthed: James Bond

James Bond began with real life spy and anxious bridegroom, Ian Fleming. But it would take a bumpy road to bring this spy story to the screen.

Despite their wild success the cracks begin to show. With the departure of their star, Cubby Broccoli and Harry Saltzman must find a new actor to play the super-spy.

Embracing the cultural changes of the 70s takes Bond to new heights, but for one producer it would be the end of an era.

With an aging actor in the lead and a new director in charge, the Battle of the Bonds divides the franchise before a new gritty take on the character nearly drives it to ruin.

Producers make a risky bet and forgo the tried-and-true formula. Acquiring the long-estranged film rights to Fleming’s first novel, Casino Royale.