The journey of human evolution has seen significant changes in average height and life expectancy over the years.
Data from Our World in Data reveals that in 1896, the average man was 5-foot 3 inches tall. A century later, by 1996, this average increased to 5-foot 6 inches.
Women have also experienced a growth spurt, with their average height rising from 4-foot 9 inches to 5-foot 2 inches during the same period.
Clearly, in just 100 years, humans have experienced considerable physical development.
Turn back the clock to 1964 and immerse yourself in Ian Fleming’s “Goldfinger.” This classic sees James Bond, portrayed by the iconic Sean Connery, engage with the villainous Auric Goldfinger, played by Gert Fröbe.
If you haven’t yet indulged in the early Bond films, it’s a cinematic journey worth taking. I reminisced watching them all during college, while a friend of mine spent his time learning the guitar. In hindsight, who made the better choice?
In the movie, you might recall Colonel Smithers, portrayed by Richard Vernon, who was just 39 at the time.
A still of Vernon recently made waves on social media, showing him with gray hair and wrinkles.
Comparing him to how Chris Hemsworth and Henry Cavill look at 41, the difference is striking. Although, personally, I doubt I’ll resemble Thor or Superman as I age, so maybe the comparison is a bit unfair.
Vernon passed away at 72 from complications related to Parkinson’s disease in 1997.
Nevertheless, it’s important to remember how much times have changed, even if that hasn’t stopped people from sharing their opinions.
One Twitter user humorously noted, “People aged differently back then. Probably smoked 3 packs and drank half a litre of Whiskey daily as well.”
Another remarked: “That is completely absurd.”
“Didn’t believe it until I looked it up! These men were born 5 years apart,” commented another, sharing an image of Vernon with Sean Connery.
On Reddit, similar astonished reactions have circulated, with many assuming Vernon was in his late 50s or early 60s.
One user stated, “Well early 60s is honestly what I would have guessed. But he doesn’t look 39. I guess the years weren’t kind to him.”
Another pondered, “He’s a good 7 years younger than Jared Leto. What the hell did people do in the 60s that made them age so fast?”