The First James Bond, Sean Connery, Confirmed Dead

Sir Sean Connery has died at the age of 90.

The sad news was confirmed by Sean's family, reports the BBC.

The Scottish actor was best known for playing James Bond in the movie franchise.

Sir Sean was the first star to play the role of 007 on the big screen in 1962's Dr No and went on to appear in seven hit films.

With a hugely successful career spanning more than 40 years, Sir Sean went on to win an Oscar, two Baftas and three Golden Globes.

Following the tragic announcement today, tribute have begun pouring in for the much-loved and respected star.

Fellow Scotsman Robert Carlyle tweeted: "RIP Sir Sean Connery.. a trailblazer, a true legend and a gentleman."

First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon also paid her respects on social media, saying that Scotland was in mourning.

"I was heartbroken to learn this morning of the passing of Sir Sean Connery. Our nation today mourns one of her best loved sons.

"Sean was born into a working class Edinburgh family and through talent & sheer hard work, became an international film icon and one of the world's most accomplished actors."

Piers Morgan shared: "RIP Sir Sean Connery, 90. The first James Bond. The best James Bond. What sad news."

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Sir Sean took home anAcademy Award in 1998 for best supporting actor for his role as a tough Irish police officer in The Untouchables.

Two years later Sean was knighted by the Queen in 2000 for his services to film drama.

Among his other hit films include in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Dragonheart and Murder on the Orient Express.

When Sir Sean turned 90 in August the team behind James Bond paid a special tribute to his contribution to the franchise by producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.

The James Bond Twitter account wrote: 'Happy Birthday to our original 007, Sean Connery, who turns 90 today. With love from Michael, Barbara, everyone at EON and all your fans.'

A poll conducted by the Radio Times the same month declared Sir Sean the best James Bond ever.

More than 14,000 people voted for their favourite Bond with Daniel Craig, Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan giving Sir Sean some stiff competiton.

Dr No, the first of the Bond films, turned the actor into an international star.

His fame only grew with the ever more popular sequels From Russia With Love, Goldfinger and Thunderball.

After 1967's You Only Live Twice, Sir Sean turned his back on the franchise over fears of being typecast but was persuaded back for 1971s Diamonds Are Forever.

Sir Sean left Bond behind again, only to be coaxed back for a second time for 1983's Never Say Never.