Sir Sean Connery, the first and quintessential ‘007’ or James Bond, has died, at 90.
The Scottish actor was best known for his portrayal of James Bond, being the first to bring the role to the big screen and appearing in seven of the spy thrillers.
Jason Connery said his father ‘had many of his family who could be in the Bahamas around him’ when he died overnight in Nassau. Much of Bond film, Thunderball, was filmed there.
Jason said: ‘A sad day for all who knew and loved my dad and a sad loss for all people around the world who enjoyed the wonderful gift he had as an actor.’
Daniel Craig, the current James Bond, said Connery was ‘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 mega watts; 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.’
In reference to Connery’s love of the game, he added: ‘Wherever he is, I hope there is a golf course.’
Dame Shirley Bassey, who sang the themes of three Bond films, said her tribute: ‘I’m incredibly saddened to hear of Sean’s passing. My thoughts are with his family. He was a wonderful person, a true gentleman and we will be forever connected by Bond.’
Producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said: ‘He was and shall always be remembered as the original James Bond whose indelible entrance into cinema history began when he announced those unforgettable words “the name’s Bond … James Bond”.’
“He revolutionised the world with his gritty and witty portrayal of the sexy and charismatic secret agent. He is undoubtedly largely responsible for the success of the film series and we shall be forever grateful to him.”
Connery was an advocate of an independent Scotland.
[Picture: John Mathew Smith &, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=75821788]