David V. Picker(1931-2019)

Was instrumental in inking the United Artists deal with James Bond producers Harry Saltzman and Albert Broccoli, thus launching the most successful and arguably most influential franchise in cinema history. Picker had tried to option the film rights to Ian Fleming's super-spy for UA previously, but to no avail. He claims he literally fell out of his (leaning back) chair when he realized Broccoli and Saltzman -- who owned the rights to all but one of the Bond novels -- were pitching 007 to the studio. A deal was finalized the very same day.

"My chair hit the floor and I said in no uncertain terms that we would make a deal and that the KEY to the film[s] was spending enough money to maintain Fleming's tone in the sensuality, style, action and wit of the books." (on his reaction to being pitched the James Bond series by producers Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman)