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Scottish movie legend Sean Connery, who shot to international stardom playing James Bond, has died aged 90, according to British media reports.

The actor graced the silver screen for four decades.

Raised in near poverty in the slums of Edinburgh, he worked as a coffin polisher and milkman before his bodybuilding hobby helped launch an acting career that made him one of the world’s biggest stars.

[Reporter, saying:] "How important was James Bond in the development of Sean Connery?"

[Sean Connery, saying:]

"Well, obviously very important because of the worldwide attention it drew to one and put into another market bracket altogether."

As Bond, his debonair manner and wry humour belied a darker, violent edge.

He is credited with crafting a depth of character that set the standard for those who followed him in the role - such as British actor Daniel Craig.

[Actor Daniel Craig, saying:] "For me, Sean Connery defined the role. For me, he will always be someone I look towards especially when I started this and 'Dr. No' and 'From Russia With Love' are two of my favorite films, so he is an influence for sure."

Connery played a series of noteworthy roles besides 007, winning an Academy Award for his role in 1987 movie ”The Untouchables”.

He was an ardent supporter of Scotland’s independence, so much so that he had the words “Scotland Forever” tattooed on his arm.

When he was knighted by Britain’s Queen Elizabeth in 2000, he wore full Scottish dress -- including the kilt of his mother’s clan.

Connery retired from movies after disputes with the director of his final outing, “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” in 2003.