He may have been best know for his flawless portrayal of secret agent James Bond, but Sean Connery has an Irish classic to thank for his successful Hollywood career.
His appearance in the 1959 Walt Disney movie Darby O'Gill catapulted the young, handsome actor to stardom - despite his questionable Irish accent.
His role as charming Michael McBride, who moved to the small Irish town of Rathcullen to become caretaker of a huge estate previously managed by Darby O’Gill, saw millions of women fall madly in love with him.
However, while the movie - which told the story of an old man’s battle of wits with the King of the Leprechauns - became an instant hit with fans, it also helped Sean Connery bag the role of 007, which would make his career.
His performance in the film - which had also required him to sing - grabbed the attention of Albert R Broccoli who, a few years later, was looking to cast an actor in the first film adaptation of Ian Fleming’s popular James Bond spy novels, Dr No.
It was claimed Cary Grant had only been willing to sign on for just one movie while Patrick McGoohan turned down the part.
Reportedly, it came down to Sean Connery (30), who was Scottish-born but of Irish descent - to convince Broccoli and the team that he was perfect for the role.
And, with his striking looks and charisma, it didn't take much for him to be snapped up for the role which would propel him onto the world stage and cement his place in acting history as the best 007.
