Bruce Herbert Glover, a distinguished actor best known for his role as the assassin Mr. Wint in the iconic James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, passed away at the age of 92. His son, Crispin Glover, confirmed the news via Instagram on March 29, 2025, revealing that his father had died on March 12, 2025. While the cause of death was not initially disclosed, a spokesperson later stated that Bruce Glover died of natural causes.
Born on May 2, 1932, in Chicago, Bruce Glover's journey into the world of acting was anything but straightforward. He grew up during the Great Depression, beginning work at the tender age of six, delivering groceries for just 60 cents a week. After high school, Glover initially pursued a football career at Wright Junior College before being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War in 1953. It was during his military service that he contracted malaria, which ultimately led him to turn his sights towards acting in 1955.
Glover's acting career spanned several decades and included a rich array of roles on both stage and screen. He made his Broadway debut in productions such as The Lion in Winter, Mother Courage and Her Children, and The Night of the Iguana. In Hollywood, he appeared in numerous television series, including My Favorite Martian, The Rat Patrol, and Mission: Impossible. However, it was his portrayal of Mr. Wint in Diamonds Are Forever that solidified his status as a household name.
In a memorable exchange with his co-star Putter Smith, who played Mr. Kidd, Glover’s character delivered the iconic line, “If at first, you don’t succeed, Mr. Kidd? Try, try again.” This moment, along with the dramatic conclusion of his character’s arc, left a lasting impression on audiences. Reflecting on his time working with legendary actors like Sean Connery and Roger Moore, Glover fondly recalled how his comedic contributions to the film added depth to the character, stating, “The final moment in the film where Sean Connery does that rude thing pushing the hooha up my yaha and giving that character his final great sexual moment is the biggest laugh in the movie.”
Glover’s filmography also includes notable appearances in films such as Chinatown, Walking Tall, and Hard Times. His versatility as an actor allowed him to seamlessly transition between genres, showcasing his talents in both drama and comedy. His final role came in the 2015 film Influence, where he starred alongside his son Crispin, further cementing their collaborative legacy.
Throughout his career, Glover remained a unique figure in Hollywood, often expressing his desire to break the mold of traditional acting. In a 2019 interview with The Original Van Gogh’s Ear Anthology, he stated, “If I am anything as an actor, it is that I will never be the usual. I will be the unusual, and I intend to continue that whatever I am doing, whether it be acting, or I’m writing, or I am going to be painting or whatever I am going to be doing. It is uniquely my own.” This philosophy resonated with many aspiring actors and served as an inspiration for those looking to carve their own paths in the industry.
Glover's personal life was marked by his marriage to Betty Krachey from 1960 until her passing in 2016. He is survived by his sons, Crispin and Michael Leigh Glover. Crispin, who is also an accomplished actor and director, often collaborated with his father, including their work together in the 2007 film It is Fine! Everything is Fine!, which Crispin directed.
In the wake of Bruce Glover’s passing, tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues alike, celebrating his contributions to film and television. His portrayal of Mr. Wint remains a defining moment in the James Bond franchise, a character that continues to be remembered fondly by audiences around the world.
As the film industry moves forward, the legacy of Bruce Glover will undoubtedly influence future generations of actors. His unique approach to character development and his ability to infuse humor into his roles have left an indelible mark on cinema. The future of the James Bond franchise, now under the creative control of producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman, has recently been confirmed to retain the character of Bond as a male figure from Britain or the Commonwealth, putting to rest speculation about significant changes in the iconic character's identity.
In light of his passing, fans are reminded of the impact Bruce Glover had not only on the Bond franchise but also on the broader landscape of film and television. His contributions have paved the way for many, and his spirit will live on through the characters he portrayed and the stories he told.
As we reflect on his life and career, it is clear that Bruce Glover was more than just an actor; he was a pioneer who embraced the unusual and challenged the norms of his time. His legacy will continue to inspire those who dare to be different in their artistic endeavors.
