Bonds past and present hail best 007
It is now one of the most hotly-discussed castings in Hollywood, but Sir Sean Connery’s portrayal of James Bond is widely agreed to have never been bettered.
Connery’s working-class background – complete with a tattoo saying “Scotland” – made him an unlikely choice to play the martini-drinking secret agent.
His preparation for the part involved a tour of expensive restaurants and casinos with his director friend Terence Young.
But Connery made the role his own, giving Bond a sharp wit and magnetic sex appeal that might not have impressed every film critic but was a box office hit and made him a hero to cinemagoers.
In August, his Bond was voted the original and best in a Radio Times survey to rank the actors who have played 007.
Yesterday, Bonds past and present led the tributes to the actor. Daniel Craig – who is now the longest-serving Bond – said: “It is with such sadness that I heard of the passing of one of the true greats of cinema.
“Sir Sean Connery will be remembered as Bond and so much more. He defined an era and a style.
“The wit and charm he portrayed on screen could be measured in megawatts – he helped create the modern blockbuster.
“He will continue to influence actors and film-makers alike for years to come.
“My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Wherever he is, I hope there is a golf course.”
The family and office of fellow Bond star Sir Roger Moore – who died in 2017 – released a statement saying: “How infinitely sad to hear the news Sir Sean Connery has passed away.
“He and Roger were friends for many decades and Roger always maintained Sean was the best ever James Bond. RIP.”
MGM Studios said Sir Sean’s “portrayal of James Bond remains one of cinema’s greatest contributions”.
A tweet said: “All of us at MGM mourn the passing of the legendary Sir Sean Connery.
“We send our sincerest condolences to his family and to his many fans around the world.”