The word icon tends to be overused and has little meaning these days.
But it is the word that best describes Scottish-born actor Sean Connery who died in his sleep at his home in Bahamas on October 31, 2020 at the age of 90.
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.
— James Bond (@007) October 31, 2020
“Bond… James Bond”
A generation of movie goers automatically associate Sean Connery with the role of James Bond.
He originated that role and appeared in the first five movies of the franchise.
- Dr. No (1962)
- From Russia with Love (1963)
- Goldfinger (1964)
- Thunderball (1965)
- You Only Live Twice (1967)
Connery returned four years later for sixth and final appearance as James Bond in 1971’s Diamonds Are Forever.
On his 80th birthday, he was asked which was his favorite Bond movie.
He said From Russia with Love:
“The story was intriguing, and the locations were intriguing. It was an international movie in every sense of the word.”
Connery never felt typecast or uncomfortable being known as Bond.
When asked in 2004 if he would ever escape his association with Bond, he said:
“Not yet. It’s with me ‘til I go in the box.”
Former Bloomberg News Critic Peter Rainer called Connery in 2006:
“the rare example of a performer who became a versatile actor after being identified with a famous role”
Though others came after him in the role, most associate Connery with Bond.
Pierce Brosnan portrayed James Bond but openly praised Connery, most notably at the 2006 American Film Institute Awards when Sean Connery received the Life Achievement Award.
Tribute to Sean Connery by Pierce Brosnan.
Credit: AFI, ViaWeb pic.twitter.com/5Zi7TQUc5W
— Pareekh Jain (@pareekhjain) November 1, 2020
Other Acting Roles
Connery made more than 60 films during his career.
His role in 1987’s The Untouchables brought him a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Connery’s co-star Kevin Costner paid heartfelt tribute to Connery.
he was incredibly inclusive with me professionally and personally. He was the biggest star that I ever worked with and I will be forever grateful to be linked with him on film. Sean Connery was a man’s man who had an amazing career. (2/2)
— Kevin Costner & MW (@modernwest) October 31, 2020
Connery played Harrison Ford’s father in 1989’s Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade.
He was admired by those who worked with him and those he inspired.
I grew up idolizing #SeanConnery. A legend on screen, and off. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/OU9QEy5fTB
— Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) October 31, 2020
Sexiest Man Alive
Sean Connery was voted People magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive in 1989 at the age of 59.
The People cover described him as,
“Older, balder…and better! Here’s one leading man who doesn’t need to fake it.”
Connery’s career was in full swing, and many believed his mustache added to his allure.
Personal Life
Connery was married two times.
His first wife was Diane Cilento (married from 1962 to 1973) with whom he shared son, Jason Connery.
Connery then married Micheline Roquebrune in 1975.
Roquebrune, 91, was at his bedside at his death.
“He had dementia and it took its toll on him. He got his final wish to slip away without any fuss. It was no life for him. He was not able to express himself latterly.”
This may explain why Connery had largely been out of the limelight in recent years.
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