How Sean Connery Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

How the contributions of Sean Connery continue to shape the world today.

Sir Sean Connery was a celebrated Scottish actor, best known as the original James Bond in seven films between 1962 and 1983. He originated the suave and sophisticated portrayal of the British secret agent in *Dr. No* (1962) and continued in films like *From Russia with Love*, *Goldfinger*, *Thunderball*, *You Only Live Twice*, and *Diamonds Are Forever*. He concluded his Bond journey with *Never Say Never Again* (1983).

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1962: "Bond ... James Bond" Becomes a Catchphrase

Following the release of the film 'Dr. No' in 1962, the line "Bond ... James Bond" became a catchphrase in Western popular culture.

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1964: Bond's Scottish Heritage Written into 'You Only Live Twice'

In 1964, following the success of Connery's portrayal of James Bond, Ian Fleming wrote Bond's Scottish heritage into his novel 'You Only Live Twice'.

June 1965: James Bond becomes a mass-cult hero

In June 1965, Time magazine observed that "James Bond has developed into the biggest mass-cult hero of the decade".

1989: Voted "Sexiest Man Alive"

In 1989, Sean Connery was voted "Sexiest Man Alive" by People magazine.

1999: Named "Sexiest Man of the Century"

In 1999, Sean Connery was named "Sexiest Man of the Century" by People magazine.

July 2000: Knighthood at Holyrood Palace

On 5 July 2000, Sean Connery was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at an investiture ceremony held at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, marking a significant honor in his life.

2003: The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and Retirement

In 2003, Sean Connery starred in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, which was a significant disappointment. Frustrated with the production, Connery chose to retire from acting rather than face similar stressful experiences again. He was also ranked eighth on Channel 4's list of the 100 Greatest Movie Stars in the UK.

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2004: Recognized as "The Greatest Living Scot"

In 2004, Sean Connery was recognized as "The Greatest Living Scot" in a poll by the UK Sunday Herald.

June 2006: Connery Confirms Retirement at AFI Lifetime Achievement Award Ceremony

In June 2006, at the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony, Sean Connery officially confirmed his retirement from acting, citing disillusionment with the state of filmmaking in Hollywood as a primary reason.

2010: Bronze Bust of Connery in Tallinn

In 2010, a bronze bust sculpture of Sean Connery was placed in Tallinn, Estonia, outside The Scottish Club, honoring his legacy and connection to Scotland.

2011: Named "Scotland's Greatest Living National Treasure"

In 2011, Sean Connery was named "Scotland's Greatest Living National Treasure" in a EuroMillions survey.

October 2020: Sean Connery's Death

In October 2020, Sir Thomas Sean Connery passed away, leaving behind a rich legacy in film.

2022: Ashes scattered in Scotland

In 2022, Sean Connery's cremated remains were scattered in Scotland at undisclosed locations.

2024: Sean Connery Prize Established

In 2024, the Edinburgh International Film Festival established the Sean Connery Prize for Feature Filmmaking Excellence, awarding £50,000 to the makers of a film chosen by audience vote.