Great Scots: Sir Sean Connery

Sir Sean Connery, Oscar-winning actor whose portrayal of James Bond has yet to be surpassed

Although Sir Sean Connery has enjoyed an extensive and prolific film career, which began in the mid-fifties with an uncredited appearance in Lilacs In The Spring, few would argue against the notion that his single greatest success has been his role as James Bond.

As the British secret agent, Connery exhuded charm and insouciance allied with a cold, ruthless demeanour: a combination that endeared him forever to fans of the Ian Fleming novels to such an extent that many argue that no actor will ever better Connery’s depiction.

The Edinburgh-born actor’s early career in the navy, and his brief flirtation with a football career, spoke more of a wandering soul than someone set on the silver screen. After a series of minor film roles, Connery accepted the role of James Bond in Dr No in 1962, and would star in four subsequent Bond films. As he moved beyond Bond, Connery was often cast in supporting roles, though he garnered much praise for roles in The Man Who Would Be King and The Untouchables, the latter for which he was awarded an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.