To say the iconic Sir Sean Connery has a number of memorable film roles would be an understatement.
Having starred in a whopping seven James Bond films across two decades, Connery forever cemented himself as one of, if not the most beloved Bond in the franchise’s history.
However, there is far more to Connery’s illustrious career than his turn as 007, as his numerous awards would attest.
In celebration of the life and legacy of the late, great Sean Connery, we’re reflecting on six of his most memorable acting roles.
Darby O’Gill And The Little People
Sean Connery’s break out role came in Disney’s 1959 musical, Darby O’Gill And The Little People. Although Connery’s stardom is hardly synonymous with singing, he charmed viewers as a groundskeeper who had been set up with another groundskeeper’s daughter with the help of a group of Leprechauns (standard). Although there were continual rumours that it wasn’t actually Connery performing the movie’s songs, such gossip certainly didn’t taint his image.
Robin and Marian
James Bond isn’t the only timeless character that Connery played, as his turn as the iconic Robin Hood proved. The film follows an ageing Robin Hood as he returns to England and endeavours to rekindle his romance with longtime lover Maid Marian. While it was certainly a different kind of Robin Hood movie than audiences may have been used to, it was both a critical and commercial success.
Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade
As if starring in one of the most popular film franchises of all time wasn’t enough, Connery decided to take his tally up to two by appearing in Indiana Jones. Starring as Indiana Jones’ father (despite only being 12 years older than Harrison Ford), the film saw the father and son pair up in the race for the Holy Grail. It was rare to see Connery play a sidekick rather than the hero, but it was a role he stepped into with ease.
The Untouchables
Surprisingly, Connery was only ever nominated for one Oscar, but it’s safe to say he made it count. Connery won the 1987 Best Supporting Actor award for his role in The Untouchables, which saw him portray a veteran police officer attempting to take down a gangster played by Robert De Niro. On top of his Academy Award, Connery also won the Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role for the film.
The Name of the Rose
In one of his most unique roles, Connery portrayed a 14th century Franciscan Friar who was called upon to solve a medieval murder mystery. Despite the film’s mixed critical reviews, it seems Connery’s move into historical drama more than paid off. For the role, Connery received the coveted Best Actor BAFTA, marking the only time he won the prize amongst several nominations.
The Avengers
Not to be confused with the Marvel movie franchise of the same name, Sean Connery’s The Avengers saw him play a mad scientist who created a machine that allows him to control the world’s weather. Although the film was universally panned and even considered to be one of the worst movies ever made, it has since gained a cult following. One can only assume that Connery’s delightfully campy portrayal of the film’s villain is a big reason it has developed an unexpected legion of devoted fans.
