Roger Moore
Actor
About Roger Moore
Roger Moore was an English actor who began his career in the early 1950s, with 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' (1954) marking one of his first significant film appearances. After serving in the British Army during World War II, he attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began working in films and television. His early career saw him in supporting roles in Hollywood productions like 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' where he played Paul Lane, alongside stars Elizabeth Taylor and Van Johnson. Moore later gained fame on television in series like 'The Saint' and 'The Persuaders!' before achieving international stardom as James Bond, a role he portrayed in seven films from 1973 to 1985. His career spanned over five decades, transitioning from early supporting roles to leading man status. Beyond acting, Moore was known for his humanitarian work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. His suave, sophisticated persona became his trademark, influencing generations of actors.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for his sophisticated, suave demeanor with a light comedic touch. His acting style emphasized charm and wit over dramatic intensity, particularly evident in his James Bond portrayals where he blended action with sophisticated humor. In his early career, he demonstrated versatility in supporting roles, transitioning from earnest dramatic performances to his trademark debonair persona.
Milestones
- Film debut in 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' (1954)
- Starred in 'The Saint' TV series (1962-1969)
- First James Bond film 'Live and Let Die' (1973)
- UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador appointment (1991)
- Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II (2003)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Globe for Best Actor – Television Series Drama (1967) - for The Saint
- Saturn Award for Best Actor (1974) - for Live and Let Die
- UNICEF Audrey Hepburn Humanitarian Award (2003)
Nominated
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor (1974)
- BAFTA nomination for Most Promising Newcomer (1958)
Special Recognition
- Knight Bachelor (2003)
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire (1999)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (1974)
- UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador (1991-2017)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Roger Moore's portrayal of James Bond significantly shaped the spy genre and popular culture, bringing a lighter, more humorous approach to the character that contrasted with Sean Connery's grittier interpretation. His sophisticated English gentleman persona became an archetype in international cinema, influencing how British characters were portrayed in Hollywood. His work with UNICEF demonstrated how celebrity status could be leveraged for humanitarian causes, setting a precedent for actor-activists. Moore's career trajectory from early supporting roles to international stardom exemplified the evolution of the modern film star in the post-war era.
Lasting Legacy
Roger Moore's legacy encompasses both his cinematic contributions and humanitarian efforts. As James Bond, he starred in seven films, the longest tenure of any actor in the role, and helped define the character for a generation of moviegoers. His early work in films like 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' demonstrated his versatility before settling into his signature suave persona. Beyond entertainment, his 26-year tenure as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador raised millions for children's causes and inspired other celebrities to engage in humanitarian work. His autobiographies provided insight into the Golden Age of Hollywood and international film production.
Who They Inspired
Moore influenced subsequent James Bond actors, particularly in balancing action with humor and maintaining the character's sophisticated charm. His approach to celebrity, combining screen presence with off-screen philanthropy, became a model for later generations of actors. His television work in 'The Saint' helped establish the format for internationally successful British TV series that could translate to global markets. His ability to reinvent himself from dramatic actor to action star to humanitarian showed the multifaceted possibilities of a modern entertainment career.
Off Screen
Roger Moore was married four times and had three children. His first marriage to Doorn Van Steyn (1946-1955) ended in divorce. He then married singer Dorothy Squires (1953-1968), followed by Luisa Mattioli (1969-1996), with whom he had his three children: Deborah, Geoffrey, and Christian. His final marriage was to Kristina Tholstrup in 2007, which lasted until his death. Moore was known for his philanthropic work, particularly with UNICEF, and was an accomplished author, writing several autobiographies.
Education
RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art)
Family
- Doorn Van Steyn (1946-1955)
- Dorothy Squires (1953-1968)
- Luisa Mattioli (1969-1996)
- Kristina Tholstrup (2007-2017)
Did You Know?
- Was a classmate of future Bond actor George Lazenby at RADA
- Served as a military officer in the Royal Army Service Corps during WWII
- Was originally considered for the role of James Bond in 1962 before Sean Connery
- Spoke fluent French and German
- Was a skilled polo player and participated in celebrity matches
- His distinctive raised eyebrow became his trademark as James Bond
- Was the oldest actor to play James Bond at age 58 in 'A View to a Kill'
- Turned down the role of Indiana Jones in 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' (1981)
- Was a close friend of Audrey Hepburn and worked with her at UNICEF
- His final film appearance was in a cameo for 'The Saint' (2017) remake
In Their Own Words
The James Bond films represent the total victory of style over content.
I'm not that handsome, but the women like me. I'm a very lucky man.
I have been a very lucky man. I've had a wonderful career, a wonderful life, and wonderful children.
You don't have to be a good actor to be a movie star. You have to be a movie star to be a movie star.
My life is divided into two parts - before I met Kristina and after I met Kristina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Roger Moore?
Roger Moore was a British actor best known for playing James Bond in seven films from 1973 to 1985, and for starring in the TV series 'The Saint'. He began his career in the early 1950s with films like 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' (1954) and later became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
What films is Roger Moore best known for?
Moore is best known for his James Bond films including 'Live and Let Die', 'The Spy Who Loved Me', and 'Moonraker'. His early career included 'The Last Time I Saw Paris' (1954), and he also starred in the TV series 'The Saint' and 'The Persuaders!'.
When was Roger Moore born and when did he die?
Roger Moore was born on October 14, 1927, in Stockwell, London, England, and died on May 23, 2017, in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, at the age of 89.
What awards did Roger Moore win?
Moore won a Golden Globe for 'The Saint' in 1967, a Saturn Award for 'Live and Let Die' in 1974, and received numerous honors including being knighted in 2003 and serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for 26 years.
What was Roger Moore's acting style?
Moore was known for his sophisticated, suave demeanor with a light comedic touch. His style emphasized charm and wit over dramatic intensity, particularly in his James Bond roles where he blended action with sophisticated humor and his trademark raised eyebrow.
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Films
1 film
