Margaret Nolan: The Golden Icon of 1960s Cinema
Recognized for her striking beauty, magnetic screen presence, and bold artistic vision, Margaret Nolan became one of the defining faces of 1960s glamour. Best known for her unforgettable connection to the James Bond universe, she also carved out a career in British comedy, cult films, and later, in the world of visual art.
Early Life and Roots
Margaret Nolan was born on October 29, 1943, in Hampstead, London, into a family of both Irish and English heritage. Growing up in post-war Britain, she witnessed a nation in transition—culturally, socially, and artistically. Before breaking into the film industry, she briefly worked as a glamour model, a stepping stone that opened doors to television and cinema.
The Goldfinger Breakthrough
Nolan’s most iconic moment came with Goldfinger (1964), one of the most beloved films of the James Bond franchise. Though her on-screen role as Dink—a masseuse who appears with Sean Connery’s 007—was small, her true legacy from the film lies in the opening credits.
It was Nolan’s body, painted in gold and filmed by artist Robert Brownjohn, that became the dazzling centerpiece of the title sequence and promotional material. While Shirley Eaton played the famous “golden girl” Jill Masterson, it was Nolan’s image that was immortalized in one of cinema’s most legendary visuals. That golden silhouette ensured her place in pop culture history.
Beyond Bond
After Goldfinger, Nolan built a successful career in British cinema, especially in comedy. She became a familiar face in the long-running Carry On series, with memorable roles in Carry On Cowboy (1965), Carry On Henry (1971), and Carry On Girls (1973). With her mix of wit, charm, and sex appeal, she quickly became a fan favorite.
Her career extended to television as well, with appearances in popular series such as The Saint, Steptoe and Son, and Crossroads. She also demonstrated her versatility with roles in films like No Sex Please, We’re British (1973) and The Breaking of Bumbo (1970).
Later Life and Artistry
Outside of acting, Nolan pursued a passion for visual art. Using her own image as a medium, she explored themes of femininity, identity, and how beauty was perceived by society. This creative pursuit reflected her ability to move beyond the glamorous screen roles that first defined her.
Nolan married British playwright Tom Kempinski, though their marriage ended in divorce. She had two sons and, in her later years, chose a quieter life away from the spotlight, dedicating herself to her art.
Legacy
Margaret Nolan passed away on October 5, 2020, at the age of 76. She left behind a dual legacy: as the golden goddess of Goldfinger and as an artist who dared to question the very ideals of femininity that had once defined her career. To this day, her image remains both a symbol of 1960s cinema glamour and a reminder of the power of reinvention.
