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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Ellie Harrison

Sean Connery’s wife Micheline Roquebrune reveals late star had dementia: ‘It was no life for him’

Photograph: Rex Features

Sean Connery’s wife has given a rare interview about her husband, following the late Bond star’s death.

The Scottish Bafta-winning star died aged 90 in his sleep in the Bahamas last week.  

While the cause of death is yet to be announced, it is believed the actor had been unwell for a long period of time.

In a new interview, actor Roquebrune – who married Connery in 1975 – told Mail on Sunday: “He had dementia and it took its toll on him. He got his final wish to slip away without any fuss.”

She added: “It was no life for him. He was not able to express himself latterly. At least he died in his sleep and it was just so peaceful. I was with him all the time and he just slipped away. It was what he wanted.”

Reflecting on her life with her husband, she said: “He was gorgeous and we had a wonderful life together. He was a model of a man.

“It is going to be very hard without him, I know that. But it could not last for ever and he went peacefully.”

Connery played James Bond in seven films from 1962 until 1983.

His first appearance as 007 came in Dr No in 1962. His other Bond films included From Russia with Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), and You Only Live Twice (1967).

He returned to the role twice more in Diamonds Are Forever (1971) and Never Say Never Again (1983).

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