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

  • 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.

  • Helena Bonham Carter: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Helena Bonham Carter

    S1 E1 - 47m 31s

    Follow actress Helena Bonham Carter as she explores the heroism of both sets of her grandparents during WWII — her grandmother, an air warden and outspoken politician, and her grandfather, a diplomat who save hundreds from the Holocaust.

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