Molly Peters was a British actress who is best known for her role as Patricia Fearing in the James Bond film Thunderball, released in 1965. She was born on March 15, 1939, in Walsham-le-Willows, Suffolk, England, and gained recognition for her stunning portrayal of a Bond girl.
Personal and Family Life
Molly Peters, born Vivien Mollie Rudderham, had a complex personal life. Early in her life, she gave birth to a daughter whom she placed for adoption. Later, she married and lived in Ipswich, Suffolk, where she had a son named Aaron, who unfortunately passed away while serving in the Royal Marines. In 2011, Molly suffered a mild stroke, which impacted her later years.
Career Overview
Peters began her career as a model, featuring in several men’s magazines before transitioning into acting. She was discovered by director Terence Young while working as an extra, which led to her significant role in Thunderball. Despite her popularity as a Bond girl, Peters only appeared in a few films and TV shows due to a falling out with her agent that curtailed her acting career.
Death and Legacy
Molly Peters passed away on May 30, 2017, in Taunton, Somerset, England. Her legacy as a Bond girl remains significant in film history, with her role in Thunderball being especially remembered. She also paved the way for future female leads in the James Bond franchise.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Thunderball | 1965-12-11 | Patricia Fearing |
| Das Geheimnis der gelben Mönche | 1966-09-29 | Vera |
| Das Experiment | 1966-10-28 | Junges Mädchen |
| Terence Young: Bond Vivant | 2000-05-16 | Self |
| Behind the Scenes with ‘Thunderball’ | 1995-05-16 | Self |
| Easier in the Dark | 1967-02-25 | Waitress |