Sir Sean Connery makes first public appearance in two years (video)

Reports of ill-health had swirled around Sir Sean Connery in recent months, exacerbated by his self-imposed retirement from public appearances over the past two years. But the Scot made a surprise visit to the New York stock exchange yesterday, when he rang the opening bell to start the day's trading.

It was hist first public appearance since being last seen at the 2010 Edinburgh Film Festival.



The 81 year-old, who lives in the Bahamas, made the trip to NYC to support Ever to Excel, a film about the 600-year history of St Andrews University which he narrates.

He was joined by St Andrews principal Professor Louise Richardson, to ring the bell in recognition of the university’s landmark anniversary.



Richardson said: “Sir Sean has been amazing and very involved with the film right the way through the creative process, so it was wonderful for him to come out and support the film like this in New York. And to be with him when we rang the bell this morning was a very memorable experience. Everywhere he went he was mobbed by people wanting to talk to him and take pictures, and he dealt with the attention very well. He is very energetic, was in great form, and still has a real passion and commitment to Scotland.”

On Wednesday evening, Connery attended the film's premiere dressed in tartan trousers.

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