END OF AN ERA

Eunice Gayson, Original ‘Bond Girl,’ Dead at 90

She played Sylvia Trench in the first 007 films.

Eunice Gayson, the actress who played the first-ever Bond girl, has passed away at the age of 90. Gayson’s portrayal of Sylvia Trench in the first 007 films, 1962’s Dr. No and 1963’s From Russia With Love, has been credited with solidifying the “Bond girl” role as an iconic part of the film franchise. Gayson also set the stage for 007’s famous catchphrase in Dr. No, prompting Sean Connery’s Bond to introduce himself as “Bond, James Bond” only in response to her character introducing herself as “Trench, Sylvia Trench.” Gayson’s passing was first announced on her official Twitter account Friday before tributes came pouring out from those who worked with her. Bond producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli issued a statement offering condolences to Gayson’s family. “We are so sad to learn that Eunice Gayson, our very first ‘Bond girl’ who played Sylvia Trench in DR. NO and FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE has passed away,” the statement said.