Bond actor Nelson dies aged 89

Nelson went on to star on Broadway in the 60s and 70s

Barry Nelson, the first actor to play James Bond on screen, has died aged 89.

Nelson played the famous spy in a one-hour TV adaptation of Casino Royale in 1954.

He signed to MGM in the 1940s and went on to appear in several of the studio's films including Shadow of the Thin Man and A Yank on the Burma Road.

His wife Nansi said Nelson died on 7 April while travelling in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. She said the cause of death was not yet known.

"He was a very naturalistic, believable actor," said his agent, Francis Delduca.

"He was good at both comedy and the serious stuff," he added.

Tony nomination

Nelson entered the Army during World War II and afterwards starred in more films such as Undercover Maisie, Time to Kill and Tenth Avenue Angel.

In the 1960s and 70s, he enjoyed a successful stage career, starring on Broadway in Seascape, Mary, Mary and Catcus Flower.

His role in The Act in 1978, which also starred Liza Minnelli, earned him a Tony nomination.

His other film credits include Airport and The Shining and he also appeared in numerous TV shows including Murder She Wrote, Dallas and Magnum PI.

Nelson is survived by Nansi, his second wife. He had no children.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.