Sir Sean Connery is looking back on his "unusually long" friendship with fellow James Bond star Sir Roger Moore following news of Moore's death.
It was Moore who stepped in when Connery ended his second stint as 007 in the early 1970s. Moore went on to lead the spy franchise in seven James Bond blockbusters into the mid-1980s.
Although they are still endlessly compared by Bond enthusiasts, Sean Connery is choosing to look back at his off-screen relationship with Sir Roger in a statement to mark his friend's passing at age 89.
"I was very sad to hear of Roger's passing," Connery told The Hollywood Reporter. "We had an unusually long relationship by Hollywood standards, that was filled with jokes and laughter, I will miss him."
Earlier in the day, Pierce Brosnan — the fifth actor to play James Bond — shared the impact Sir Roger had on his life in an poignant Facebook message.
"Dear Sir Roger Moore, It is indeed with a heavy heart that I hear the news of your passing this morning," Brosnan wrote.
"You were a big part of my life, from The Saint to James Bond...you were a magnificent James Bond and one that lead the way for me, the world will miss you and your unique sense of humor for years to come. My sincerest condolences to your family and children. RIP. "
Tributes have also poured in from friends Sirs Paul McCartney and Michael Caine, Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli and current 007 star Daniel Craig.
Sir Roger's death following "a short but brave battle with cancer" was announced by his three children Deborah, Geoffrey and Christian on Tuesday.
