Chapter 65: Hollywood's Eye
"As anyone can see from the trailers and promotional posters for The Rock, John Mason is a former British agent." Facing the Fox Television cameras, Sean Connery displayed his usual gentlemanly demeanor. "Warner Brothers and director Duke Rosenberg both extended invitations to me, and I was very interested in the role. We had already entered substantive negotiations, but Duke Rosenberg changed his mind and cast an obscure older actor instead. I find it deeply regrettable."
"Were you highly interested in the role?" the reporter asked, playing along.
"Yes, I was very interested," Sean Connery admitted openly. "Everyone knows what my first famous role was. I had no reason to turn it down, and I believe fans would love to see me play a character like this..."
Connery's words constantly invited the audience and media to compare this John Mason to himself. Throughout the interview, he repeatedly tugged at his suit collar—James Bond's signature gesture—clearly telling everyone that he was the retired British agent.
The broadcast then cut back to the studio, where the show's host offered some timely commentary.
"Given John Mason's character profile, no older actor in Hollywood is more suited for the part than Sean Connery. Sean was also highly interested in the role. It's hard to understand why young director Rosenberg rejected him in favor of an unknown like Christopher Lee. Does he really think Lee can compare to Sean Connery?"
Some things didn't need to be stated outright. Guiding public opinion was relatively easy for today's media, let alone a major nationwide broadcaster like Fox Television.
Turning off the TV, Sofia walked back, sat down, and looked at Duke.
"The day is finally here," she said, looking quite relaxed.