Sir Sean Connery, born Thomas Connery, was born on August 25, 1930. He was the first actor to portray the mythical British agent 007, James Bond. Named the Sexiest Man Alive of the Century, Connery was one of the most famous personalities in the film industry. Talented and handsome, confident and charming, Connery was one of the most famous actors of his time. His name is still in every debate about the best James Bond, and he almost always wins. So let’s celebrate the anniversary of his birth.
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Sir Sean Thomas Connery
Nickname:
Big Tom, Tommy
Birth date:
August 25, 1930
Death date:
October 31, 2020 (age 90)
Zodiac Sign:
Virgo
Height:
6' 2"
Net Worth:
$350 million
Background
Sean Connery was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1930. The mythical actor was born into a poor family. His mom Euphemia McBain was a cleaning lady. His father, Joseph Connery, was a factory worker and a lorry driver. Connery had a younger brother named Neil. The Connery family lived in a poor neighborhood. Connery started working at nine to help his family — he delivered milk and assisted at a butchery. When Connery was 13, he left school to work full-time. At 18, he began bodybuilding. In 1953, Connery traveled to London to participate in the Mr. Universe competition. Young Connery came out third in the competition — still, he stayed in London and auditioned for a role in the musical “South Pacific.” At that point, Connery decided to pursue a career in acting. He landed a part on a British television show and participated in some B movies.
In 1957, Connery landed a role in the movie “Action of the Tiger.” On the set, he met Terence Young — director of three James Bond movies. Connery was called for an audition for the first James Bond movie. The auditions team loved Connery’s performance — they thought he was perfect for portraying Bond and hired him immediately. Connery starred in seven James Bond films from 1962 to 1983. The first one, “Dr. No,” had an enormous success, and Connery’s career rose in a second. However, the actor found it hard to deal with the fame — at that moment, everyone was talking about Bond and wanted to know about the incredibly handsome actor that brought the character to life. The last James Bond film Connery was in was “Never Say Never” in 1983.
Connery continued acting in successful films for many years. The actor retired in 2003 and made retirement official with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Connery died at 90 years old in October 2020 at his home in the Bahamas.
Career timeline
Connery performs in a musical in London.
Connery meets the future director of three James Bond films.
Connery gets the starring role in “Dr. No,” becoming the first James Bond ever.
He plays Bond for the last time in “Never Say Never Again.”
Connery wins Best Supporting Actor.
Why We Love Sean Connery
His charity for education
Connery earned $1.25 million for the film “Diamonds are Forever.” The actor donated his entire profits to the Scottish International Education Trust.
He supports theater
After reading an article about the theater industry now doing so well, Connery had to do something to help. He donated $50,000 to the National Youth Theater in England.
He left a mark in the film industry
Every film lover has watched the James Bond movies. With his outstanding performance, Connery gave birth to a mythical character that people still talk about many decades later.
5 Surprising Facts
He was in the Navy
In 1946, at age 16, Connery joined the Royal Navy.
He slept in a drawer
When he was a baby, his family apartment lacked space, and Connery had to sleep in a bureau drawer.
He could have been Gandalf
Connery was offered the role of Gandalf in the “Lord of The Ring” films — he declined the offer.
He loves golf
Connery discovered his love for golf when he learned the sport for a James bond movie.
He has a favorite Bond movie
He loves “From Russia with Love.”
Sean Connery FAQs
What illness did Sean Connery have?
Connery died of pneumonia at 90 years old.
Where is Sean Connery buried?
Connery’s body was cremated.
Did Sean Connery have a daughter?
No, he had a son, Jason Connery. Jason is also an actor.
Sean Connery’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | August 25 | Monday |
2026 | August 25 | Tuesday |
2027 | August 25 | Wednesday |
2028 | August 25 | Friday |
2029 | August 25 | Saturday |