The Embarrassing Prop Sean Connery Was Forced To Use For James Bond
Sean Connery was known as a “ladies’ man” when he was cast as James Bond in 1962’s Dr. No. The actor was perfect for the role in every way but one – he started losing his hair at age 20. While this led to some hesitation to cast him, Connery agreed to wear a hairpiece whenever he suited up as 007 across seven movies from 1962 to 1983.
While some people may consider wearing a hairpiece embarrassing, Sean Connery was not one of them. Due to the skills of the make-up team on each of his seven James Bond films, no one even noticed.
Sean Connery agreed to wear a hairpiece when he portrayed James Bond since his hairline was drastically receding.
According to Cheat Sheet, Connery is one of many actors who needed extra hair for a role. William Shatner used hairpieces on Star Trek, and Ted Danson even removed his toupee on an episode of Cheers.
James Bond fans are probably glad the actor didn’t allow his hair troubles to get in the way of his career. Sean Connery’s tenure as 007 was instrumental in shaping the character’s on-screen persona.
He portrayed the fictional British Secret Service agent in the first five films produced by Eon Productions, starting with Dr. No in 1962 and ending with You Only Live Twice in 1967.
After You Only Live Twice, Sean Connery decided to step away from the James Bond role, feeling typecast and frustrated with the attention it brought him. He was replaced by George Lazenby for one film, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, in 1969. Sean Connery returned to the role in 1971’s Diamonds Are Forever and Never Say Never Again in 1983.
Sean Connery’s portrayal of James Bond established many of the defining characteristics of the character that have since become synonymous with the super spy. The actor brought a rugged charm, charisma, and a suave demeanor that resonated with audiences. His contribution helped establish the franchise as one of the most successful and enduring film series ever.
William Shatner also used hairpieces on Star Trek, and Ted Danson even removed his toupee on an episode of Cheers.
Before Sean Connery, the role of James Bond was played by actor Barry Nelson in a 1954 television adaptation of Casino Royale. Initially, there was resistance to casting Connery as Bond. Ian Fleming, the author of the Bond novels, reportedly had reservations about the choice due to Connery’s Scottish background.
However, Fleming eventually came to appreciate Sean Connery’s portrayal and even provided the character with a Scottish heritage in subsequent novels. Additionally, Connery’s portrayal of Bond popularized several iconic elements associated with the character. His preference for “shaken, not stirred “vodka martinis” became a signature catchphrase.
Sean Connery’s Legacy As James Bond
Many subsequent James Bond actors, including Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig, have acknowledged the influence of Sean Connery’s performance on their own interpretations of the character. There is still no word on who will be the next actor to take on the iconic role.
However, some rumors suggest that Aaron Taylor-Johnson is a top contender for the coveted job. Nonetheless, casting director Debbie McWilliams previously clarified that no concrete discussions were held with any potential actors for the role. McWilliams explained that Bond producer Barbara Broccoli and the team have been occupied with other projects.
