Pierce Brosnan pays tribute to Sir Sean Connery calling him the "greatest James Bond"

Pierce Brosnan has paid tribute to the legendary Sean Connery following news of his death at age 90. 

The Scottish actor - who was the first to play 007 on the big screen - died in his sleep in the Bahamas, after being unwell for some time.

Taking to social media, Brosnan praised Connery for casting "a long shadow of cinematic splendour" for all the other actors who have played the suave spy over the years.

Sharing a black and white photo of the Academy Award and BAFTA-winning actor Instagram, Brosnan wrote: "Sir Sean Connery, you were my greatest James Bond as a boy, and as a man who became James Bond himself.

"You cast a long shadow of cinematic splendour that will live on forever. You led the way for us all who followed in your iconic footsteps. Each man in his turn looked to you with reverence and admiration as we forged ahead with our own interpretations of the role.

"You were mighty in every way, as an actor and as a man, and will remain so till the end of time. You were loved by the world, and will be missed. God bless, rest now, be at peace."

Connery's first outing as the British spy was in 1962's Dr. No. 

In total, he brought author Ian Fleming's dashing secret agent to life seven times with films such as Diamonds Are Forever, From Russia with Love, Goldfinger and Thunderball.

Brosnan, meanwhile, starred in four Bond movies between 1995 to 2002, including GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, and Die Another Day.

The 67-year-old actor was succeeded by Daniel Craig, who is the current star of the franchise, and who also paid tribute to Connery over the weekend.

In a statement shared by the official James Bond Twitter account, Craig said: "It is with such sadness that I heard of the passing of one of the true greats of cinema.

"Sir Sean Connery will be remembered as Bond and so much more. He defined an era and a style. The wit and charm he portrayed on screen could be measured in mega watts; he helped create the modern blockbuster.

"He will continue to influence actors and film-makers alike for years to come. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Wherever he is, I hope there is a golf course."

Connery is survived by his wife Micheline Roquebrune, son Jason and his brother, Neil.