Sean Connery

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Sean Connery as James Bond at Switzerland 1964 (two thirds crop)

Sean Connery

Sir Thomas Sean Connery (25 August 1930 – 31 October 2020) was a Scottish actor and producer. He was best known for his portrayal of James Bond, starring in seven Bond films between 1962 and 1983. Connery was often regarded as the best actor to have played James Bond, and his portrayal of the character helped establish the series as a major film franchise.

Early Life

Sean Connery was born in Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, Scotland. His mother, Euphemia "Effie" McBain McLean, was a cleaning woman, and his father, Joseph Connery, was a factory worker and lorry driver. Connery had a modest upbringing and left school at the age of 13 to work as a milkman, among other jobs.

Career

Early Career

Connery began his acting career in smaller theatre and television productions. His first major film role was in the 1957 British gangster film No Road Back. He gained wider recognition with his role in the 1959 Disney film Darby O'Gill and the Little People.

James Bond

Connery's breakthrough came when he was cast as James Bond in Dr. No (1962). He went on to star in six more Bond films: From Russia with Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), You Only Live Twice (1967), Diamonds Are Forever (1971), and Never Say Never Again (1983).

Post-Bond Career

After his tenure as Bond, Connery continued to have a successful career in film. He starred in notable films such as Murder on the Orient Express (1974), The Man Who Would Be King (1975), A Bridge Too Far (1977), and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989). Connery won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Untouchables (1987).

Personal Life

Connery was married twice, first to actress Diane Cilento from 1962 to 1973, and then to Micheline Roquebrune from 1975 until his death. He had one son, Jason Connery, from his first marriage.

Honors and Awards

Connery received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including an Academy Award, two BAFTA Awards, and three Golden Globe Awards. In 2000, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to film drama.

Death

Sean Connery passed away in his sleep on 31 October 2020, at his home in the Bahamas. He was 90 years old.

Legacy

Connery's portrayal of James Bond left an indelible mark on the film industry, and he is remembered as one of the greatest actors of his generation. His contributions to cinema and his iconic roles continue to influence actors and filmmakers worldwide.

Filmography

• Dr. No (1962)
• From Russia with Love (1963)
• Goldfinger (1964)
• Thunderball (1965)
• You Only Live Twice (1967)
• Diamonds Are Forever (1971)
• Never Say Never Again (1983)
• Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
• The Man Who Would Be King (1975)
• A Bridge Too Far (1977)
• Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
• The Untouchables (1987)

See Also

• James Bond (character)
• List of James Bond films
• Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor