George Baker Biography
George Morris Baker was an English actor and writer who left an indelible mark on British entertainment. Born in Varna, Bulgaria on April 1, 1931, Baker spent his early life in repertory theatre and at the Old Vic.
He made his name on the big screen with standout roles in 1950s films like The Dam Busters, The Ship That Died of Shame, and The Moonraker.
George Baker starred in three different James Bond films as different characters under three different James Bonds. He had an uncredited part as a NASA Engineer in You Only Live Twice (1967) with Sean Connery, before being cast as Sir Hilary Bray in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969) with George Lazenby, and then his biggest role in the film series was when he was cast as Captain Benson in Roger Moore‘s third film The Spy Who Loved Me (1977).
As his career progressed, Baker shifted his focus to television, where he became a fixture in popular series such as The Prisoner, I, Claudius, and The Ruth Rendell Mysteries. He also starred in his own comedy series, Bowler, and made memorable appearances in shows like Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em and Midsomer Murders.
Baker’s stage career was equally impressive, with highlights including a season with the Old Vic company and the role of Claudius in Buzz Goodbody’s modern-dress Hamlet for the Royal Shakespeare Company.
In addition to his acting work, George Baker was also a talented writer, penning plays for television and contributing to the screenplays of several Wexford adaptations. He was recognized for his charitable work with a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) award in 2007.
Baker was married three times and had five daughters. He passed away on October 7, 2011, at the age of 80, from pneumonia following a stroke.
