Bernard Lee was a famed English actor known for playing authoritarian figures in his movies, but most especially as the commanding officer of Agent 007.
Early Accomplishments
As early as 6 years old, he appeared on stage with his father in a short play titled The Double Event in 1914. He worked as a fruits dealer to pay his tuition through Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Post-graduation, he worked in repertory theatres across England and later on in thrillers and comic plays on the West End stage, before debuting on-screen in 1934 with The Double Event.
Best Known For
Between 1962 and 1979, Bernard played and reprised his role as M in 11 James Bond movies and was due to appear in For Your Eyes Only but died during filming.
Asides his exploits in 007 films, he majorly plays a policeman, military officers and men of authority in his film career that spanned 45 years.
Sexual Orientation
Lee was straight and was married twice. Although the date of marriage is not available, Bernard married Gladys Merredew but death did them part when she died in a fire that engulfed their home in January 1972.
In 1975, he got married to Ursula McHale who was with him until his death.
Family
He was born to Edmund James and Nellie Lee in either Brentford, Middlesex or County Cork now known as Ireland.
He had a daughter from his first marriage, Ann who is the mother of British-American actor, Jonny Lee Miller.
Religion
His religious beliefs and practices remain unknown.
Worth To Know
He got mugged a month after the fire and started drinking heavily, slumping into debts and depression for 2 years.
He died due to stomach cancer in a hospital in 1981, a week after turning 73.
Compare 0
