My Grandparents’ War

Was Kit Harington’s Grandfather the Inspiration for Bond?

Actor Kit Harington speaks with historian Phil Tomaselli about his grandfather’s service during World War II. He learns that his grandfather, John Harington, was recruited by the Naval Intelligence Division in 1941, and stationed in Jamaica at the same time as Ian Fleming — who would go on to write the series of James Bond novels, drawing inspiration from his time in British intelligence.

Was Kit Harington’s Grandfather the Inspiration for Bond?

2m 56s

  • Keira Knightley: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Keira Knightley

    S2 E2 - 43m 54s

    Actress Keira Knightley (Pride and Prejudice, Atonement) has starred in several films set during World War II, yet admits she never knew much about her grandparents’ actual wartime experiences. Now, through conversations with family members and historians, she learns of the triumphs and tragedies her grandparents faced during some of the biggest conflicts of the century.

  • Kit Harington: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Kit Harington

    S2 E1 - 41m 52s

    Actor Kit Harington, who has played soldiers, spies, and – in "Game of Thrones" – warriors, discovers that his grandparents played comparable roles in their real lives during WWII. Speaking with family members and historians, he gains a new appreciation of the courage and sacrifice all four grandparents shared as they fought for their country and for a cause.

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