Yesterday the world lost another cinematic great, when Roger Moore passed away after a “short but brave battle with cancer”. However, he leaves behind an iconic body of work, which will ensure not only that we will always remember him, but always love him.
James Bond
Roger Moore became the third actor to portray the famous spy in the popular 007 franchise, produced by Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman. From 1973 to 1985, Moore made seven Bond films. His first was Live and Let Die; however, his first appearance as the character was in the TV series Mainly Millicent – marking him as the longest-serving Bond. Oozing the same suave sex appeal Sean Connery had used to define the role, Moore made it his own by infusing the character with his delightful, tongue-in-cheek wit.
Simon Templar
Moore had plenty of chance to exercise his charm in the time he spent playing Simon Templar on The Saint. Based on the novels by Leslie Charteris, Moore infused the character with the same roguish wit and charm that would distinguish his Bond. Brimming with international locations, gorgeous women, mystery, intrigue and action, it’s little wonder that the show – championed by its charismatic lead – ran for seven years.
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador
The actor loved his on-screen work and embraced the recognition he received from playing Bond. "People often call me 'Mr Bond' when we're out and I don't mind a bit. Why would I?" he stated in a 2014 interview with The Guardian. After his time as Bond, his acting became less regular as he chose to focus on his charity work. Good friends with Audrey Hepburn, Moore was inspired by her work with UNICEF and also became involved. In 1991, he was made a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador; and in 2003 was knighted for his services to charity. Receiving this honour, Moore said, “meant more than if it had been for my acting.”
There is no doubt that Roger Moore will be sorely missed and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.
In memoriam of the great actor and humanitarian, M-Net will be screening The Spy Who Loved Me, Moore’s favourite Bond instalment and also regarded by many critics as his best, at 20:00 on M-Net Movies Action+