Sean Connery turns 80 today as fans around the world celebrate his iconic acting career that has captivated millions and given people so much joy.

Best known for his role as British secret agent James Bond, Connery helmed the new era of spy films as James Bond during the cold war that were highly successful and made him the highest paid actor in the world. In the leading role of 007, Connery established himself as the definitive Bond, and rival Roger Moore, who took over from Connery told the Scottish edition of the sun tabloid:

I would like to say a big thank you to Sean for having been the best Bond and really launching the Bond phenomenon.

Connery has played a diverse range of roles throughout his career from a Russian submarine captain in Hunt for Red October to an Irish cop in The Untouchables , which earned him an Oscar. Some of his other classics include Name of the Rose and his personal favourite The Man Who Would be King . Which played at this year s Edinburgh Film Festival in honour of his career. Connery officially declared it would be his last appearance at the festival although he would continue to support it. He became patron of the festival in 1992.

At aged 80, Sean Connery has achieved what many only dream of, having been The Sexiest Man Alive and portraying important roles that have encouraged young actors in his footsteps to live up to his masterful acting. Now it would seem that his retirement from acting is official after Connery told Scotland's Daily Record:

"I don't think I'll ever act again. I have so many wonderful memories but those days are over."

Connery enjoys a happy retirement with his wife Micheline Roquebrune in the Bahamas. His son Jason Connery continues to excel in his acting and film directing career.