All 8 Actors Who Have Played James Bond, Ranked
James Bond, the suave British spy, has thrilled audiences for over six decades. From gritty action to sharp wit, the character’s charm lies in how each actor shapes him.
Eight performers have stepped into 007’s shoes, each leaving a unique mark. I’ve ranked them based on their impact, style, and how they fit the era they starred in.
8. Barry Nelson
Barry Nelson was the first to play James Bond in a 1954 TV episode of ‘Climax!’ called ‘Casino Royale’. As an American ‘Jimmy’ Bond, his take was far from the polished MI6 agent we know today.
The low-budget, live-broadcast show lacked gadgets or exotic locales. Nelson’s performance was solid but didn’t capture the charm or danger of later Bonds, making it a curious footnote in 007 history.
7. David Niven
David Niven took on Bond in the 1967 spoof ‘Casino Royale’. His Sir James Bond was a retired, comedic version, surrounded by a chaotic plot and multiple 007s.
Niven’s wit and elegance shone, but the film’s silly tone didn’t match the serious spy we expect. It’s a fun detour, not a true Bond adventure.
6. George Lazenby
George Lazenby stepped in for one film, ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ (1969). A young Australian model, he replaced Sean Connery and faced a tough crowd.
His raw, emotional take, especially in the film’s tragic ending, has aged well. Still, his inexperience and single outing keep him lower on the list.
5. Roger Moore
Roger Moore played Bond in seven films, from ‘Live and Let Die’ (1973) to ‘A View to a Kill’ (1985). His era leaned into campy humor and wild plots, like space battles in ‘Moonraker’.
Moore’s charm and cheeky one-liners won fans, but the lighter tone sometimes felt cartoonish. He kept the series alive during a shifting era, which I respect.
4. Timothy Dalton
Timothy Dalton brought a darker Bond in ‘The Living Daylights’ (1987) and ‘Licence to Kill’ (1989). He aimed for Ian Fleming’s flawed, intense spy, less suave than his predecessors.
His gritty approach was ahead of its time, but some fans missed the humor. Dalton’s focus on a raw, vulnerable 007 earns him a solid spot.
3. Pierce Brosnan
Pierce Brosnan starred in four films, from ‘GoldenEye’ (1995) to ‘Die Another Day’ (2002). He blended charm, wit, and toughness, making Bond feel fresh after a long break.
‘GoldenEye’ was a high point, but later films like ‘Die Another Day’ faltered with over-the-top plots. Brosnan’s smooth style still makes him a fan favorite.
2. Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig redefined Bond across five films, from ‘Casino Royale’ (2006) to ‘No Time to Die’ (2021). His rugged, emotional 007 brought depth, showing a spy haunted by loss and duty.
Craig’s era mixed intense action with personal stakes, like his romance with Vesper Lynd. Despite some weaker films, his commitment reshaped Bond for modern audiences.
1. Sean Connery
Sean Connery, the original big-screen Bond, starred in seven films, including ‘Dr. No’ (1962) and ‘Never Say Never Again’ (1983). His suave, commanding presence set the template for 007.
From ‘Goldfinger’ to ‘From Russia with Love’, Connery’s mix of charm, danger, and wit made Bond iconic. He’s the standard every actor after him chased.
Which Bond actor is your favorite, or did I overlook a standout performance? Drop your thoughts in the comments!