Desmond Llewelyn appeared as Q in 17 James Bond films.
Llewelyn first played Major Boothroyd, better known as Q, in From Russia with Love in 1963. He continued in the role through The World Is Not Enough in 1999, becoming one of the most recognizable recurring performers in the series.
Q is the head of the fictional British Secret Service research and development branch. He supplies Bond with specialized equipment, vehicles, and technical advice, often while expressing impatience with Bond’s habit of misusing or damaging the gadgets.
The number 17 refers to Llewelyn’s credited appearances in the official Eon-produced films. He did not play Q in Dr. No, and he was absent from Live and Let Die. After Llewelyn’s retirement, John Cleese played Q in Die Another Day, while Ben Whishaw took over the role beginning with Skyfall.