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Sir Sean Connery (August 25, 1930 – October 31, 2020) was a renowned Scottish actor, best known for being the first to portray the British secret agent James Bond on film. He starred in seven Bond films from 1962 to 1983. Connery originated the role in Dr. No (1962) and continued with Eon Productions in From Russia with Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), You Only Live Twice (1967), and Diamonds Are Forever (1971). He made his final appearance as Bond in the non-Eon-produced film Never Say Never Again (1983).

Connery's notable collaborations with directors like Alfred Hitchcock, Sidney Lumet, and John Huston resulted in memorable films such as Marnie (1964), The Hill (1965), The Offence (1973), Murder on the Orient Express (1974), and The Man Who Would Be King (1975). His filmography also includes Robin and Marian (1976), A Bridge Too Far (1977), Time Bandits (1981), Highlander (1986), The Name of the Rose (1986), The Untouchables (1987), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), The Hunt for Red October (1990), Dragonheart (1996), The Rock (1996), and Finding Forrester (2000). His final on-screen role was as Allan Quatermain in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003).

Connery's accolades include a BAFTA Award, three Golden Globe Awards, and an Academy Award, making him the first Scottish actor to win an Oscar. He also received honorary awards such as the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 1987, the BAFTA Fellowship in 1998, and the Kennedy Center Honors in 1999. In recognition of his contributions to drama, he was made a Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters in France and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000.

Early Life:

Sir Thomas Sean Connery was born on August 25, 1930, in the Fountainbridge area of Edinburgh, Scotland. He was the elder of two sons born to Euphemia McBain, a cleaning woman, and Joseph Connery, a factory worker and lorry driver. Growing up in a working-class family, Connery’s early years were marked by financial hardship. His family lived in a cramped, cold water tenement, which was common for working-class families in Scotland at the time.

Connery left school at the age of 13 to help support his family, taking on various jobs such as a milkman, a bricklayer, a lifeguard, a coffin polisher, and even a model for the Edinburgh College of Art. Despite his lack of formal education, Connery was known for his keen intellect and curiosity. His early work experiences instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of resilience that would later define his career.

Education:

Connery’s formal education was limited due to his early departure from school, but he was a voracious reader and self-educated in many respects. He joined the Royal Navy at the age of 16, which he saw as an opportunity to escape his impoverished circumstances. However, his naval career was cut short due to a duodenal ulcer, a condition that ran in his family. Despite this setback, his time in the navy exposed him to new experiences and disciplines that broadened his horizons.

Upon returning to Edinburgh, Connery continued to work various odd jobs while nurturing an interest in bodybuilding. His dedication to physical fitness paid off when he participated in the 1953 Mr. Universe contest, where he placed third in the tall men’s division. This achievement not only boosted his confidence but also opened doors to new opportunities, particularly in the world of acting.

Sean Connery's career trajectory is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal as an actor. After his initial foray into theatre with "South Pacific," Connery transitioned to television and film roles throughout the 1950s. He appeared in several British television series and films, gradually building his reputation as a talented and charismatic actor.

Connery's big break came in 1962 when he was cast as James Bond in "Dr. No," the first film adaptation of Ian Fleming's spy novels. Despite initial skepticism from critics and audiences, Connery's portrayal of Bond was an instant success. He brought a rugged charm and sophistication to the role, establishing the character's enduring popularity. Connery went on to play Bond in six more 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).

While Connery is perhaps best known for his role as James Bond, his career extended far beyond the iconic spy. He sought to avoid typecasting by taking on a diverse array of roles in various genres. In the 1970s, he appeared in films such as "The Man Who Would Be King" (1975), "The Wind and the Lion" (1975), and "Robin and Marian" (1976), demonstrating his ability to tackle complex and varied characters.

The 1980s and 1990s saw Connery continue to diversify his filmography. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Jim Malone in "The Untouchables" (1987). Other notable films from this period include "Highlander" (1986), "The Name of the Rose" (1986), "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" (1989), and "The Hunt for Red October" (1990). These roles solidified Connery's status as one of Hollywood's leading actors and earned him critical acclaim and commercial success.

Connery's final film role was in "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen" (2003). He retired from acting in 2006, although he occasionally participated in voice-over work and remained a prominent public figure.

Sean Connery's legacy is multifaceted and enduring. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, and his portrayal of James Bond remains iconic. Connery's Bond was characterized by a blend of toughness, wit, and elegance, setting a standard for future portrayals of the character. His influence on the Bond franchise is undeniable, and many subsequent actors who played the role have cited Connery as an inspiration.

Beyond his work as James Bond, Connery's diverse filmography showcases his versatility as an actor. He excelled in a variety of genres, from action and adventure to drama and comedy, leaving an indelible mark on each. His performances in films like "The Untouchables," "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," and "The Hunt for Red October" are celebrated for their depth and charisma.

Connery was also known for his distinctive voice and commanding screen presence, qualities that made him a compelling actor to watch. His contributions to cinema were recognized with numerous awards and honors, 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 and drama.

Connery's legacy extends beyond his cinematic achievements. He was a proud Scotsman and a vocal advocate for Scottish independence. His philanthropy and support for educational and cultural initiatives in Scotland earned him respect and admiration in his homeland.

While Connery passed away on October 31, 2020, his influence on the film industry and popular culture remains strong. His work continues to inspire actors and filmmakers, and his films are cherished by audiences worldwide. As future generations discover his performances, Sean Connery's legacy will undoubtedly endure, cementing his place as a cinematic legend.

In summary, Sean Connery's life and career are a testament to his talent, versatility, and enduring appeal. From his humble beginnings in Edinburgh to his rise as a global icon, Connery's journey is a remarkable story of perseverance and success. His contributions to film and his impact on popular culture will be remembered for years to come.

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5. Pendreigh, Brian (1 November 2020). "Obituary: The Sean Connery I knew". The Scotsman. Retrieved 1 February 2021.