On Saturday, the news broke that Sean Connery had passed away at the age of 90. The actor had a long list of iconic roles to his name, though it was James Bond he will no doubt be most fondly remembered for. The Scottish actor played 007 across six films from 1962 to 1983, and Variety has now shared statements from current Bond, Daniel Craig, and veteran franchise producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
Craig first played the Ian Fleming creation in 2006's Casino Royale and will bid farewell to the role in No Time to Die next April.
"It is with such sadness that I heard of the passing of one of the true greats of cinema," the actor told the trade. "Sir Sean Connery will be remembered as Bond and so much more. He defined an era and a style. The wit and charm he portrayed on screen could be measured in mega watts; he helped create the modern blockbuster."
"He will continue to influence actors and film-makers alike for years to come," Craig continued. "My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Wherever he is, I hope there is a golf course."
In a separate statement, Wilson and Broccoli said that Connery, "was and shall always be remembered as the original James Bond whose indelible entrance into cinema history began when he announced those unforgettable words, ‘The name’s Bond...James Bond.’"
Countless tributes have poured in over the past 48 hours or so, but these are perhaps the most relevant given the current direction the James Bond franchise is being taken. Connery's legacy won't be forgotten, though, and it's likely No Time to Die will be dedicated to the actor in some form.