Bond fans may not always agree, but there's consensus on Sean Connery's impact as the original cinematic James Bond. Connery's significant presence helped establish Bond as a global phenomenon, and he is often ranked as the best Bond.
Connery's Bond tenure officially ended in 1971 with "Diamonds Are Forever," yet a potential return seemed possible with proposed cameos in "Die Another Day" and "Skyfall." These were considered during the films' anniversaries but never came to fruition.
In the case of "Die Another Day," director Lee Tamahori proposed Connery as a former 007 advising Pierce Brosnan's Bond. However, uncertainties regarding the "codename theory," where James Bond is seen as a title passed between agents, led to rejection due to potential continuity disruptions.
For "Skyfall," director Sam Mendes considered Connery for a role eventually played by Albert Finney. Mendes felt Connery's iconic Bond status would distract from the story, a view met with agreement that sustaining narrative focus was necessary.
Connery's history with Bond had its tensions, and his retirement was well-established. Yet fans ponder how these cameos might have influenced the films, reflecting on Connery’s enduring legacy and unique contributions to the franchise.