Connery gives nod of approval to new 007
(AP)
Updated: 2005-12-04 11:46

Sean Connery thinks a blond Bond is just fine. The former 007 says Daniel Craig is a "terrific choice" as the new British superspy.

Actor Sir Sean Connery applauds a French Open tennis tournament match at the Roland Garros stadium June 1, 2005 in Paris. Connery, 75, told British Broadcasting Corp. television that he approves of the choice of Daniel Craig to be the next actor to portray James Bond 007. [AP]

Some eyebrows were raised in October when producers cast the sandy-haired, relatively unknown Craig in the next James Bond film, "Casino Royale."

But Connery, 75, told British Broadcasting Corp. television that he approved.

"Craig's a great choice, really interesting �� different," Connery said in comments released Friday by the broadcaster. The full interview is due to air Monday.

"He's a good actor. It's a completely new departure," he added.

The respect is mutual. Craig told a news conference in October that Connery was his favorite 007.

Connery was the first actor to play Bond, appearing in six official Bond films beginning with "Dr. No" in 1962 and ending in 1971 with "Diamonds Are Forever."

Roger Moore, George Lazenby, Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan have also starred as the womanizing, gadget-loving spy.

Connery said he'd left the role in part "because I got really fed up with the space stuff and special effects. I just found it getting more and more influential in the movies."

"Casino Royale" is due in theaters next November.