Ursula Andress: The Bond Girl and The King
In the early 1960s, Ursula Andress, fresh from her role in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, was then cast as Elvis Presley’s love interest in Fun in Acapulco. The beach-themed film provided numerous opportunities for the Swiss-German beauty to display her stunning looks and charm, just as she wowed movie goers as Honey Ryder.
A Surprising First Meeting
As the anticipation built for the pairing of Elvis Presley and Ursula Andress on the set, the entertainment world eagerly awaited the sparks that were expected to fly between the King of Rock and Roll and the Bond Girl.
Fans and film enthusiasts alike were curious about how their unique charisma and magnetism would translate on the big screen. Little did they know, the initial encounter between the two stars would prove to be a heartwarming and unexpected moment.
Andress later recounted her astonishment upon meeting The King, a man she only knew from his television appearances. She said, “The first day I went to work, he came over, this humble man, full of charm, love in his eyes, and kindness, and being so considerate and warm. I was so surprised.”
Ursula Andress in Popular Culture
Tables Turned: Ursula Pursues Elvis
Although Elvis was known for pursuing his leading ladies, his friend Sonny West revealed that it was Andress who took the initiative this time. West said, “They were very close. She went after him. She wanted him bad.”
Back at Graceland, Elvis’ girlfriend at the time, Priscilla Beaulieu, was anxiously aware of Andress’ “sex goddess” reputation and her pursuit of Elvis. Priscilla later wrote about Elvis’ conversation with his friend Alan Fortas: “‘Yeah, but E,’ Alan Fortas kidded him, ‘she only had eyes for you.’”
Elvis Addresses Priscilla’s Insecurities
Trying to alleviate Priscilla’s concerns, Elvis responded to her question about Andress’ looks: “‘Wasn’t she pretty?’ I asked. ‘Pretty?’, he snickered. ‘Hell, she had a bone structure so sharp, it could cut you in half if you turned too fast.’”
Despite his attempts to downplay the situation, Priscilla was left wondering about the true nature of her boyfriend’s relationship with the captivating Ursula Andress.
A Legendary Love Affair That Could Have Been
Had Elvis and Ursula Andress allowed their on-set chemistry to blossom into a full-blown romance, it would have undoubtedly been a legendary love affair. With Andress as his partner, who knows what could have happened in the world of entertainment?
Perhaps the hip-swiveling King of Rock and Roll would have traded in his blue suede shoes for a tuxedo and a martini, and the world would have seen him take on the role of the next James Bond.
The thought of Elvis Presley as 007 is amusing, to say the least, but one can’t help but imagine the impact of such a power couple on the industry. With their combined charisma and talent, the possibilities would have been endless!
