Sean Connery has died aged 90.

Connery’s family confirmed on Saturday (Oct 31) the legendary actor had passed away in his sleep while in the Bahamas.

The Scottish-born actor whose career spanned decades, was best known for playing James Bond in seven Bond movies, starting with 1962's Dr No, followed by Goldfinger, From Russia with Love, Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, Diamonds Are Forever and Never Say Never Again.

In August, he topped a poll conducted by RadioTimes.com to be named the best ever James Bond.

Post-Bond, Connery went on to distinguish himself with a long and mature career in such diverse movies as The Wind the Lion, The Man Who Would Be King, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and The Rock.

He won a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for playing tough Irish cop Jim Malone in Brian De Palma’s 1987 The Untouchables.

Connery’s last major screen appearance was in 2003’s The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, as legendary adventurer Allan Quatermain. He announced his retirement in 2005. In 2010, he voiced the animated short Sir Billi the Vet, which he also executive produced.

In 2000, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II at Holyrood Palace for his services to film.

Connery is survived by his second wife Micheline Roquebrune, a French artist; his two sons Jason and Stephane; a brother; and several grandchildren. 

Hollywood took to social media to remember the legendary actor and the iconic roles he'd played over the years. Michael G Wilson and Barbara Brocoli, the producers and custodians of the Bond franchise, tweeted, “We are devastated by the news of the passing of Sir Sean Connery. He 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” — he revolutionized the world with his gritty and witty portrayal of the sexy and charismatic secret agent. He is undoubtedly largely responsible for the success of the film series and we shall be forever grateful to him.”

Daniel Craig, the current James Bond, in a statement, said, “It is with such sadness that I heard of the passing of one of the true greats of cinema. 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. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Wherever he is, I hope there is a golf course.”

Former Bond Pierce Brosnan also expressed his condolences via Instagram. He wrote, "Sir Sean Connery, you were my greatest James Bond as a boy, and as a man who became James Bond himself. You cast a long shadow of cinematic splendor that will live on forever. 

"You led the way for us all who followed in your iconic foot steps. Each man in his turn looked to you with reverence and admiration as we forged ahead with our own interpretations of the role.

"You were mighty in every way, as an actor and as a man, and will remain so till the end of time. You were loved by the world, and will be missed. God bless, rest now, be at peace," he concluded.

Author Stephen King wrote, “Sean Connery in his first starring role, as a washed-up boxer. He was a fine actor and by most accounts a good guy.”

Here are the other tributes:

Photo: TPG News/Click Photos