Ursula Andress, iconic Bond girl, sees $23m fraud case take dramatic twist

Ursula Andress’ years-long fraud battle has taken a dramatic turn, after authorities moved to recover millions in assets she alleges were stolen from her.

The actress, widely known as the original Bond girl in Dr. No, had previously accused her longtime wealth manager of defrauding her out of around $23 million in a complex scheme spanning several years.

Now, Italian financial authorities have seized assets worth approximately €20 million, including artworks and financial holdings believed to be linked to the alleged fraud.

The development follows a criminal complaint filed earlier this year against the estate of her former manager, Eric Freymond, whom she accused of transferring funds without her consent and using them for fraudulent purchases.

At the centre of the case is a luxury property in Tuscany, reportedly acquired using her money, along with a collection of valuable assets tied to the alleged scheme.

Freymond had denied the allegations before his death in July 2025, which was reported as an apparent suicide.

What the case reveals

Andress has said she was deliberately targeted and manipulated over several years by someone she trusted, describing the emotional toll of the alleged fraud as devastating.

She previously spoke of feeling “helpless” and in shock, claiming she had been exploited after years of carefully managing her finances and savings.

The actress also described ongoing anxiety following the ordeal, saying the experience had left her struggling to come to terms with what had happened.

While the seizure of assets marks a significant step in the case, it remains unclear whether any arrests have been made or how much of the money will ultimately be returned.

For now, the recovery offers a partial breakthrough in a case that has left one of Hollywood’s most recognisable faces fighting to reclaim what she says was taken from her.