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 Scottish actor best known as the original James Bond in the iconic film franchise. He starred in seven Bond films between 1962 and 1983, beginning with Dr. No. His portrayal of the suave secret agent defined the character for generations. Beyond Bond, Connery had a distinguished acting career spanning several decades, but his role as 007 remains his most enduring and recognizable contribution to cinema.

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 'Dr. No' in 1962, the line "Bond ... James Bond" became a famous catchphrase, solidifying Sean Connery's iconic status as James Bond in popular culture.

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1964: James Bond Given Scottish Heritage in 'You Only Live Twice' Novel

In 1964, after Sean Connery's successful portrayal of James Bond, Ian Fleming gave the character a Scottish heritage in the novel 'You Only Live Twice', acknowledging Connery's influence on the role.

June 1965: James Bond as 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: "Sexiest Man Alive"

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

1998: Received BAFTA Fellowship

In 1998, Sean Connery received the BAFTA Fellowship, a lifetime achievement award from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

1999: "Sexiest Man of the Century"

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

July 2000: Knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II

On 5 July 2000, Sean Connery was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh.

2004: The Greatest Living Scot

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

June 2006: Confirmed Retirement from Acting

On 8 June 2006, Sean Connery confirmed his retirement from acting at the American Film Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony, citing disillusionment with Hollywood. His disillusionment with the "idiots now making films in Hollywood" was cited as a reason for his decision to retire.

2010: Bronze Bust Sculpture Placed in Tallinn

In 2010, a bronze bust sculpture of Sean Connery was placed in Tallinn, Estonia, outside The Scottish Club.

2011: Scotland's Greatest Living National Treasure

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

2022: Ashes scattered in Scotland

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

2024: Establishment of the Sean Connery Prize for Feature Filmmaking Excellence

In 2024, the Edinburgh International Film Festival established an annual award in Sean Connery's honor, known as The Sean Connery Prize for Feature Filmmaking Excellence, which awards £50,000 to filmmakers chosen by audience vote.