By Andrew Canese
With continued heartbreak in this unprecedented year, people all around the world have yet again had to say goodbye to another legend, Sean Connery. Most known for his roles as 007 in the James Bond films, Henry Jones Sr. in “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” and Captain Marko Ramius in “The Hunt for Red October,” fans all over the world were shocked by Connery’s sudden passing on October 31, but knew that his legacy would live on.
“...From his iconic suits, incredible acting, and heart made for a superspy, his lasting impact on fans and regular movie-goers alike will be remembered forever...”
Starting out, the then named Thomas Connery practiced bodybuilding and became a model for student artists and men’s fashion catalogs. Growing up in a working class family, Connery found his love for the big screen, making his acting debut in the 1954 film, “Lilacs in the Spring.” In 1962, the young actor was cast in the screen adaptation of Ian Fleming’s spy story “Dr. No” where his legacy would begin, playing the cool and cunning James Bond.
Due to the immense success of the movie, he was brought back to reprise his role for another four Bond films. In hopes of creating notoriety that went beyond his role as a superspy, he starred in other films as well, including Alfred Hitchcock’s movie, “Marnie” (1964).
Although Connery renounced the role of James Bond after the premiere of “You Only Live Twice,” he was convinced to return to reprise the role in the 1971 film “Diamonds Are Forever.” Though many believed that it would be his last movie as 007, Connery surprised fans once more in “Never Say Never Again” (1983).
“I loved the old James Bond movies; he [Sean Connery] brought a lot of life to the character,” said junior Daniel Dore.
Reproduced with permission from Wikimedia Commons
One of Connery's most iconic roles was 007 in the James Bond films.
After one last adventure as the legendary British spy, Connery started taking other roles, including a veteran Chicago cop in “The Untouchables” (1987), Henry Jones Sr. in “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” (1989), and Marko Ramius in “The Hunt for Red October” (1990). In 2003, following his appearance in “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen,” Connery retired from acting, though he went on to perform in different voice roles.
“Sean Connery was a great actor, and we’re going to miss him,” said sophomore John DiCanio.
In 1999, Connery received a Kennedy Center Honor for lifetime achievement and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2000. When not on screen, he spent his time supporting the Scottish National Party, advocating for Scottish independence.
Although the beloved 007 has passed, his legacy will continue through the spirit of future actors. From his iconic suits, incredible acting, and heart made for a superspy, his lasting impact on fans and regular movie-goers alike will be remembered forever.