Scotland has long been known as a rival to England, with the history rich from many wars. In recent years, the two nations have grown fond of one another, but rivalries still linger – especially in sport.
With the Scottish national holiday of St. Andrew’s Day occurring this month, we have chosen to highlight a few Scottish legends from the entertainment industry.
All of these Scots have become household names through their portrayal of characters – we’re sure you’ll recognise at least one of them.
Sean Connery
Voted as ‘The Greatest Living Scot’ in The Sunday Herald and receiving a knighthood in 2000, Sir Thomas Sean Connery was perhaps best-known for his role in the James Bond films.
An international spy working for the MI5, Connery portrayed 007 in seven of the British spy films, including the first, Dr. No.
Although Connery and Bond both enjoy the casino, Connery’s favourite game is Roulette, whilst Bond’s is Baccarat.
The Scotsman grew to fame for his portrayal of Mr Bond, so much so, that not many people recognise his other acting achievements such as The Untouchables, Murder on the Orient Express and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
His efforts in helping to create the best on-screen British spy of all time is why we list him as one of our favourite Scots.
Tilda Swinton
The Academy Award winning actress has one of the longest family histories in Scotland. The Swinton family name can be traced back all the way to the Norman Conquest.
But enough about history, Swinton is by no means a name of the past. The actress’ iconic acting has been recognised globally, landing her the role of the White Witch in The Chronicles of Narnia and the Ancient One in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films Doctor Strange and Avengers: Endgame.
Swinton’s career extends further than huge blockbuster films; she also has projects away from acting, including photography and fashion.
An all-round success story for Scotland and an idol for young women across the globe.
Ewan McGregor
It may shock come as a shock to you that McGregor’s success came years before playing the role of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars prequel trilogy – though it has become his most famous role.
In 1993, McGregor bagged the leading role in the Channel 4 series Lipstick on Your Collar.
It wasn’t until six years later that the Scotsman landed the sci-fi role that would change his career for the better.
Although his spotlight hasn’t been as bright in recent years, McGregor is still acting. One of his most recent roles was playing the eponymous character in the 2018 film, Christopher Robin.
The Scotsman has received multiple awards for his acting talents including his appointment as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2013.
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There are many figures in entertainment who carry the Scottish flag with pride including Gerard Butler and Harry Potter favourite, Robbie Coltrane.
If you delve into the record books a little more, you’ll discover many famous Scottish names – not only from the entertainment industry.
For a small nation, whose landscape is mainly full of lochs and hills, the population is very talented.
That alongside many other achievements mean that there is a lot to be celebrating on St. Andrew’s Day this year.
