James Bond filmography by Connery, was selected as the third-greatest hero in cinema history by the American Film Institute. When Sean Connery had been cast in November 1961, David Niven had been Fleming's choice for the role as the actor reflected his image of the character. In 1965 producer Charles Feldman signed Niven to play Sir James Bond for "Casino Royale", a film not made by Eon Productions. Connery and Peter Sellers had both turned down the role. Niven was 56 when he played Bond and his characterisation was that of an elderly man who had won the Victoria Cross at the Siege
David Niven on screen, stage, radio, record and in print increasingly appeared on American radio and television channels, and later on their British counterparts. In the latter medium he appeared frequently in the "Four Star Playhouse" series, as well as producing some editions. For his roles in both television and on film, Niven was honoured with two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He died in 1983 from a virulent form of motor neurone disease at the age of 73. David Niven on screen, stage, radio, record and in print The British actor David Niven (1910–1983) performed in many genres of light entertainment, including film, radio and theatre. He