James Bond: Ranking The 007 Actors From Worst To Best

by Scott Campbell

1. Sean Connery

MGM

The original and still the best; its very unlikely that the Bond series would still be going strong over 50 years later if it wasn't for Sean Connery. Of course, it has become Hollywood legend that the producers of the fledgling franchise were reluctant to cast the actor in the lead role, but in Connery's hands James Bond instantly became a cultural icon.

From the moment he utters the immortal introduction of 'Bond... James Bond', a star was born. With a strong screen presence and abundance of charisma, Connery almost effortlessly established 007 as one of the coolest characters in the movie business; suave and charming, with the innate ability to deliver a perfectly-timed and witty one-liner. Growing into the character as his time in the role progressed, the actor's first three outings as Bond (Dr. No, From Russia With Love and Goldfinger) still rank as three of the very best movies in the franchise.

While the actor eventually tired of the role (despite coming back for Diamonds Are Forever and the unofficial Never Say Never Again), when people think of James Bond they usually imagine Connery's version of the character. With the actor in the lead role, the franchise settled into its formula of martinis, gadgets and gorgeous girls, all anchored by increasingly assured and confident performances that made even the lesser entries during his time as the character eminently watchable.

Do you agree with the article? How would you have ranked them? Who made the best Bond? As always, sign off in the comments below.

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