Roger Moore
Actor
October 14, 1927 – May 23, 2017
British actor Roger Moore has passed away at the age of 89 after a short battle with cancer according to multiple reports. Moore was best known for his portrayal of the suave English gentleman and deadly spy, James Bond.
Moore was conscripted into the British Army shortly after World War Two, and worked his way up to the rank of Captain. After leaving the military, he began a career in modelling and acting. In 1954 he signed a seven-year contract with MGM.
His acting career began with supporting roles in the films “Interrupted Melody” (1954) and “Dianne” (1956). After lackluster success in film, Moore transitioned into television. Throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s, Moore starred in several television programs. His big break came when he landed the role of Simon Templar, a thief who stole from other criminals in “The Saint” (1962-1969). This role made Moore an international star through the popularity of the series overseas.
During this time, producers of the James Bond franchise approached Moore to take over the role from Sean Connery. Unfortunately, he was unable to accept the role due to scheduling conflicts. The producers would approach Moore again years later and he accepted the role and starred in “Live and Let Die” (1973).
Moore would go on to play James Bond seven times over the course of twelve years. He has the longest tenure as James Bond and helped keep the franchise alive after Sean Connery retired from the role. Moore left his own mark on the role making the character wittier and suaver. His charismatic and likeable presence was well received by fans and left him as a one of the most liked Bonds among fans. Moore finally retired from the role in 1985 at the age of 58, passing the role to Timothy Dalton.
After retiring from the Bond role, Moore took a break from acting and didn’t appear in another role until 1990. From then on, his acting became sparse with him mainly playing small roles.
In 1991 he became a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and became involved with other animal welfare causes and charities. In 2003, he was knighted as a commander of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his notable charity work.
Moore was also a published author writing two books about his time as James Bond as well as two autobiographies.
He leaves behind a wife and three children.
Following the news of his death, celebrities have expressed their condolences online: