Mere Days Following Sean Connery's Death His Widow Confirms Tragic Truth

Nov 05, 2020

The news over the weekend that the original James Bond, Sean Connery, passed away at the age of 90 was a shock to the world, leaving fans and celebrities alike in mourning.

Now, Connery's wife Micheline Roquebrune has revealed that the beloved actor was struggling with dementia late in his life, but that he got his wish to pass away peacefully.

On October 31, 90-year-old actor Sean Connery passed away in his sleep while at his home in Nassau, The Bahamas, where he's lived with his wife Micheline Roquebrune since the 1990s. The world has been in mourning since, with an outpouring of stars and fans alike posting to social media in honor of the Scottish actor. Now, his widow has revealed that the late actor was struggling with dementia in his final few months. Speaking with the Mail on Sunday, as reported by France 24, Roquebrune said:

"He had dementia and it took its toll on him. He got his final wish to slip away without any fuss."

Speaking further about his battle with dementia towards the end of his life, she said:

"It was no life for him. He was not able to express himself latterly."

Connery had shunned the spotlight in recent years, favoring a quiet life in the comfort of his home in the Bahamas. And while his passing is sad news, at least he passed away in peace with his beloved wife nearby.

The Guardian reports that Roquebrune also commented:

"At least he died in his sleep and it was just so peaceful. I was with him all the time and he just slipped away. It was what he wanted.”

Roquebrune spoke of the wonderful life they had together, calling him "a model of a man." According to his publicist, the actor will be honored in a private funeral ceremony, with a public memorial event to occur later. 

Needing no introduction as the first, and often the most beloved portrayal of special agent 007 James Bond in the film franchise, in which he played the role in seven Bond movies, Connery was also a revered actor beyond that role. Appearing in such movies as The Untouchables, Highlander, and more, he was celebrated for his acting, earning an Academy Award, two BAFTAs, and three Golden Globes in his lifetime. In 2000, the Scotsman was knighted by the queen in an investiture ceremony in Edinburgh.

Fellow former Bond, actor Pierce Brosnan, wrote a touching tribute on Instagram earlier this week, saying:

"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 [sic]. Each man in his turn looked to you with reverence and admiration as we forged ahead with our own interpretations of the role."

Current Bond actor Daniel Craig also shared a touching tribute via a statement, as reported by Variety:

“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 megawatts; he helped create the modern blockbuster. He will continue to influence actors and film-makers alike for years to come."

Many other actors and celebrities have shared tributes, including Harrison Ford, who released a statement to Variety saying: “He was my father…not in life…but in 'Indy 3,'" referencing their 1989 film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. He added:

"God, we had fun—if he’s in heaven, I hope they have golf courses. Rest in peace, dear friend."

The creator of Indiana Jones writer and director George Lucas also commented:

"Sir Sean Connery, through his talent and drive, left an indelible mark in cinematic history. His audiences spanned generations, each with favorite roles he played." 

More than just an actor, Connery helped to define masculinity through the lens of cinema, and his contributions are still largely felt in the industry. May he rest in peace.

Are you a fan of Sean Connery? What is your favorite role of his over the years? Let us know in the comments, then be sure to pass this on to your friends and family so they can honor the late actor too.