After five blockbuster James Bond films, Sean Connery made the shocking decision to leave 007 behind. While fans believed it was simply time for a new chapter, those closest to the production say his frustration had reached a breaking point long before filming finally ended.

After starring in five James Bond movies, Sean Connery quit the role that had defined his Hollywood career. When shooting 1967’s You Only Live Twice, which is on ITV1 this Sunday, the 007 actor was far from happy.

The Scottish legend grew bored with the role, especially because of what he saw as a lack of character development across the films. He also got fed up with all the fan attention he received as a huge celebrity. While filming You Only Live Twice in Japan, the Bond star was followed into a public bathroom by a photographer and repeatedly pursued by a stalker. Understandably, both encounters left him furious.

According to The Telegraph, Connery was not exactly getting on with 007 producers Cubby Broccoli and Harry Saltzman. With tensions at an all-time high, their fights became so bad that the Bond star would refuse to leave his trailer if Cubby was on set. In addition to all this, the star was unhappy with his salary, which ended up at $750,000, with 25 per cent of merchandising profits added on top.