The Jamaican government has paid tribute to Sean Connery, the Scottish actor who is best known for playing fictional spy James Bond in seven films from 1962 to 1983.
Connery died on October 31 at the age of 90. Through his portrayal of the character written by famous Jamaican resident, Ian Flemming, Connery brought the beauty of Jamaica to Hollywood.
His first appearance as James Bond came in Dr No in 1962. Some scenes from the movie were shot on some grounds of Goldeneye, Fleming’s home which was later turned into a resort. Other scenes were shot in Oracabessa, Port Royal and the Palisadoes strip in St. Andrew. Several scenes from Live and Let Die (1973) were also shot in Jamaica.
Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness sent his condolences to the family, friends and fans on Connery, saying: He will always be remembered as the original James Bond with the phase: ‘The name’s Bond… James Bond.”
The island’s Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange also praised the actor for his work which she says brought both him and Jamaica to world attention.
In a post on Twitter, Grange said, “Jamaica remembers Sean Connery, the first James Bond, whose role in the blockbuster film ‘Doctor No’ brought both him and beautiful Jamaica to world attention.
“His career in films included many stellar roles, but Jamaica will always remember him for his role in the classic adaptation of Ian Fleming’s novel. Sending tribute and commendations from Jamaica. #RIP,” she added.
The Scottish actor was knighted in 2000 and won numerous awards during his decades-spanning career, including an Oscar, three Golden Globes and two Bafta awards.
In 2019, for the 25th instalment of the James Bond series, No Time To Die, the producers of the film paid tribute to the origins of the character by shooting parts of the movie on the island.
