George Lazenby pays tribute to James Bond co-star Diana Rigg, 007's only wife

George Lazenby has spoken of his sadness following the death of his James Bond co-star Dame Diana Rigg at the age of 82.

The veteran performer was best known for roles in The Avengers, Game Of Thrones and On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, where she played Countess Teresa “Tracy” Bond, the wife of 007.

Dame Diana died peacefully at home after being diagnosed with cancer in March this year, her daughter confirmed.

Lazenby, 81, said on Instagram: “I’m so sad to hear of the death of Diana Rigg.

“She undoubtedly raised my acting game when we made On Her Majesty’s Secret Service together in 1968-9.

“I remember the press conference at the Dorchester in London, knowing she was going to play my wife.

“We had fun together on the set of the movie in Switzerland and Portugal.

Read more: Dame Diana Rigg: The British acting icon's greatest roles

“Her depth of experience really helped me.

“We were good friends on set.

“Much was made of our supposed differences but that was the press looking for a news story.

“I was sorry to have lost my wife in the film at the end.

“The death of Contessa Teresa di Vincenzo Draco created a memorable cinema moment over 50 years ago.

“As my new bride, Tracy Bond, I wept for her loss.

“Now, upon hearing of Dame Diana’s death, I weep again.

“My deepest condolences for her family.”

Bond producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli remembered Dame Diana for playing the only woman to have married 007 on screen.

They said: “We are very sad to hear of the passing of Dame Diana Rigg, the legendary stage and screen actress who was much beloved by Bond fans for her memorable performance as Tracy di Vicenzo in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, the only woman to have married James Bond.

“Our love and thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.”

In fact, 1967’s You Only Live Twice saw Sir Sean Connery’s Bond marry but only as part of an undercover ploy.