James Bond Actors in Order – From Sean Connery to Daniel Craig

James Bond has been brought to life by many talented actors over the years, each leaving their mark on the iconic role.

With Daniel Craig’s final appearance as 007 in “No Time to Die,” fans are eagerly speculating about the next actor to take on the mantle.

Names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Regé-Jean Page, Idris Elba, and James Norton are circulating, but the official decision remains unknown.

Now feels like the perfect time to reflect on the actors who have played Bond, from the charm of Sean Connery to the intensity of Daniel Craig.

Every portrayal has added something unique to the legacy of this legendary character, shaping the franchise into what it is today.

James Bond Actors in Order

1. Barry Nelson (1954)

Barry Nelson was the first actor to play James Bond on screen. In 1954, he starred in a television adaptation of Casino Royale for the anthology series Climax!

Unlike the suave British agent we know today, Nelson’s Bond was reimagined as an American agent named Jimmy Bond.

Though this version is not part of the official EON Productions series, it marks Bond’s very first on-screen appearance and deserves a mention in the franchise’s legacy.

2. Sean Connery (1962–1967, 1971, and 1983)

Sean Connery was the first actor to portray James Bond in the official film series, debuting in 1962.

He played the role in seven films, including the first five and later returning for Diamonds Are Forever in 1971 and the non-EON production Never Say Never Again in 1983.

Despite initial doubts from Ian Fleming, Connery’s interpretation of Bond became iconic, combining charm and a degree of ruthlessness.

He passed away on 31st October 2020 at the age of 90.

3. Bob Simmons (1962–1964)

Bob Simmons never starred as Bond in a full film, but his role was crucial to shaping the character.

As a stuntman, Simmons appeared as Bond in the famous gun barrel sequences for the first three films: Dr. No, From Russia with Love, and Goldfinger.

His physical presence helped define the iconic opening shot that remains a hallmark of the franchise.

4. David Niven (1967)

David Niven portrayed James Bond in the 1967 film Casino Royale, which is not part of the official EON Productions series.

Niven was Ian Fleming’s preferred choice for Bond, envisioning a character more in line with his literary creation.

At 56, Niven’s Bond was depicted as older, more settled, and cultured, adding a unique twist to the character.

5. George Lazenby (1969)

George Lazenby had the shortest tenure as James Bond, appearing in only On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

Despite being relatively unknown prior to landing the role, Lazenby earned some praise for his performance, even receiving a Golden Globe nomination.

Misguided advice from his agent led him to believe the Bond image was losing appeal, prompting his premature exit from the series.

6. Roger Moore (1973–1985)

Films: Live and Let Die, The Man with the Golden Gun, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, A View to a Kill

Roger Moore holds the record for the most official Bond films, starring in seven.

His portrayal was more light-hearted and humorous compared to his predecessors.

Moore’s Bond combined elegance with a touch of his personal flair, such as preferring cigars to cigarettes.

Known for his roles in television series like The Saint and The Persuaders, Moore brought a unique charm to the role.

7. Timothy Dalton (1987–1989)

Taking over from Moore, Timothy Dalton brought a more serious tone to the character of James Bond in his two films.

Dalton’s interpretation was praised for being closer to Ian Fleming’s original character.

Legal disputes over the Bond franchise’s licensing delayed any further films, ultimately leading to Dalton’s departure after his contract expired.

8. Pierce Brosnan (1995–2002)

Pierce Brosnan blended elements of both Connery’s and Moore’s Bonds, bringing sophistication, wit, and occasional toughness to the role.

He starred in four films, beginning with GoldenEye.

His Bond was notably more modern, addressing shifting attitudes and criticisms, such as being called a “sexist, misogynist dinosaur” in GoldenEye.

Brosnan wished to continue for another film but left the role in 2004 after negotiations failed.

9. Daniel Craig (2006–2021)

Daniel Craig’s arrival as James Bond in 2006’s Casino Royale marked a return to a grittier and more grounded portrayal of the character.

Though some fans were initially skeptical, Craig won acclaim and demonstrated a depth and intensity previously unseen in the franchise.

His tenure includes five films which makes him the longest-serving Bond in terms of years.

Craig’s final film, No Time to Die, sealed his place as one of the most memorable actors to take on the iconic role.

Best James Bond Actors Ranked

1. Daniel Craig tops the list with his gritty, modern interpretation of the character, bringing emotional depth and complexity to the role. His portrayal has redefined Bond for contemporary audiences, making the character more relatable.
2. Sean Connery, often seen as the quintessential Bond, brought a perfect blend of charm and toughness. His suave demeanor and iconic one-liners set the standard for future actors in the role.
3. Timothy Dalton added a darker edge to the character, staying true to Ian Fleming’s original vision. His performance is often praised for being intense and compelling.
4. Pierce Brosnan managed to bridge the gap between Connery’s sophistication and Dalton’s seriousness, offering a balanced and versatile portrayal.
5. Roger Moore brought a lighter, more humorous touch to Bond, starring in seven films and becoming a fan favorite for his wit and charm.
6. George Lazenby, although appearing in only one film, left a lasting impression with his strong performance in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.”
7. David Niven played Bond in a more comedic, less conventional way, suited for the spoof-like “Casino Royale” (1967). While not considered one of the best, his unique take is still remembered.

Which Actor Played Bond for The Longest?

Daniel Craig holds the record for the longest-serving actor as James Bond, portraying the iconic character over a span of 15 years. His tenure began with Casino Royale in 2006 and concluded with No Time To Die in 2021.

Sean Connery played James Bond in six official films, excluding the non-Eon production Never Say Never Again.

Roger Moore still holds the record for appearing in the most James Bond films, starring in seven movies over a twelve-year period from 1973 to 1985.

FAQs

Who was the youngest actor to play James Bond?

George Lazenby was the youngest actor to take on the role of James Bond. He was 29 years old when he starred in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in 1969.

Has any actor turned down the role of James Bond?

Yes, several actors have turned down the role. Notably, Burt Reynolds, Liam Neeson, and Hugh Jackman were approached but declined for various reasons. Jackman, for example, wanted to focus on other projects at the time.

Did any James Bond actors perform their own stunts?

Daniel Craig is known for performing many of his own stunts during his time as James Bond. He sustained multiple injuries, including a torn ACL and broken bones, while filming action-packed scenes across his five films.

Was Ian Fleming involved in casting the original James Bond?

Ian Fleming had mixed feelings about casting Sean Connery as Bond in Dr. No. Fleming initially doubted Connery’s suitability, believing he lacked the refinement of the literary Bond. However, he later grew to admire Connery’s performance and even added elements inspired by Connery to future Bond novels.

Are there any unproduced James Bond films?

Yes, there are. One notable example is Warhead, a script developed in the 1970s by Sean Connery and writer Kevin McClory. The project aimed to feature underwater action and a showdown with SPECTRE but was never made due to legal disputes. Elements of the script later influenced Never Say Never Again.

Final Thoughts