Ranking Every James Bond Actor’s Legacy
Over the years, multiple actors have stepped into the tux, each leaving their mark on 007. Some redefined the character, while others, let’s say not every Bond was shaken or stirring. Based on critic reviews and fan opinions, here are ten Bond actors ranked from best to worst.
Sean Connery
When Sean Connery strolled into “Dr. No” (1962) and coolly introduced himself, “Bond. James Bond.” The world was hooked. He had the charm and the perfect smirk. “Goldfinger” and “From Russia with Love” became instant hits, helping his six films raise over $3 billion. The ultimate 007? Absolutely.
Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig didn’t just play Bond; he rebuilt him. “Casino Royale” (2006) introduced a bruised, brooding 007 who felt pain. He bled, loved, and lost, making Bond more human. Skyfall alone pulled in $1.1 billion, cementing his legacy as the Bond with the most gripping evolution.
Roger Moore
Roger Moore made Bond fun. He brought humor and just the right amount of eyebrow-raising swagger in seven films. “The Spy Who Loved Me” and “Live and Let Die” proved he could own the role, even if things got ridiculous. As he quipped in “Octopussy,” “Nobody does it better.”
Timothy Dalton
Timothy Dalton delivered a darker, more intense Bond by blending Shakespearean training with Ian Fleming’s original vision. His no-nonsense take in “The Living Daylights” (1987) and “Licence to Kill” (1989) felt more faithful to the novels, paving the way for Craig’s later portrayal. However, ’80s audiences weren’t quite ready for such a serious 007.
George Lazenby
From model to secret agent, George Lazenby had one shot at Bond—a bold one. “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” (1969) delivered high-stakes action, a surprisingly vulnerable 007; though dismissed then, his performance aged well, praised for its emotional depth. His departure, partly self-inflicted, left many wondering what could have been.
David Niven
The most peculiar Bond, David Niven, played a gentlemanly 007 in the 1967 spoof “Casino Royale.” Unlike his action-packed counterparts, he portrayed an aging, retired Bond. While amusing, the film’s chaotic script and multiple Bonds made it more of a curiosity than a serious entry in the franchise.
Pierce Brosnan
“For England, James?”—With that icy retort in “GoldenEye” (1995), Pierce Brosnan solidified himself as Bond. He had the charm of Moore, the edge of Connery, and a wardrobe sharper than his one-liners. His four-film run revived 007, though “Die Another Day”’s CGI overload left a slight dent in his legacy.
Barry Nelson
Before Connery made Bond a legend, Barry Nelson took a crack at 007—well, Jimmy Bond. In the 1954 “Casino Royale” TV special, he played an Americanized version of the spy, swapping British charm for a more straightforward, detective-like approach. However, his portrayal lacked the suave danger that later defined the role.
Peter Sellers
A comedy genius but a misfit in Bond’s world, Peter Sellers took on 007 in “Casino Royale” (1967), and the results were as messy as the film’s production. Behind the scenes, he clashed with co-stars and ultimately delivered an inconsistent performance. A brilliant actor? Absolutely. But not one meant to wear the tuxedo.
Woody Allen
Jimmy Bond? That’s right. Woody Allen played James Bond’s bumbling nephew in the 1967 parody “Casino Royale.” His version of Bond was a neurotic, reluctant spy—entirely at odds with the character’s legacy. Although amusing, it’s safe to say this remains the least Bond-like performance ever.
