Roger Moore dead at 89 – tributes pour in for James Bond actor from fellow celebrities
SIR Roger Moore was hailed a "real-life hero" today as tributes poured in after the James Bond legend died, aged 89.
The actor, who played the iconic role of 007 in seven Bond films, has passed away following a “short but brave” battle with cancer.
The late actor's family led the tributes with an emotional statement signed by his three children Deborah, Geoffrey and Christian Moore.
Confirming he had passed away in Switzerland, they wrote: “We know our own love and admiration will be magnified many times over, across the world, by people who knew him for his films, his television shows, and his passionate work for UNICEF which he considered to be his greatest achievement.
“Thank you Pops for being you, and for being so very special to so many people.”
Following on from Sean Connery and George Lazenby, Sir Roger was the third actor to take on the role of the iconic British spy, making his debut as the 007 in Live And Let Die.
Starring in Bond films Moonraker, A View To A Kill and The Man With The Golden Gun, his final outing as the character came in the 1985 movie A View To A Kill, when he was 57-years-old.
Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli praised the actor for "reinventing the role".
The filmmakers, who have worked together on twelve Bond films from 1983's Octopussy to the latest movie Spectre, said: "We are heartbroken at the news of Sir Roger Moore’s passing.
";On the screen, he reinvented the role of James Bond with tremendous skill, charisma and humour.
"In real life, he was a genuine hero working as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for many years dedicating his life to alleviating the suffering of children all over the world.
"He was a loyal and beloved friend and his legacy shall live on through his films and the millions of lives he touched."
James Bond author Ian Fleming's estate also paid their respects, tweeting: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Roger Moore, who brought joy to so many with his portrayal of Bond & his sterling UNICEF work.”
As the news spread of the 007 star's death spread, tributes also began to pour in from celebrities.
Alongside his acting, many praised the charity work carried out by Sir Roger - who was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1999, and a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 2003.
British actor Michael Caine branded the news "devastating", adding "my world will never be the same again".
Sir Roger's good friend Michael Ball tweeted: “My dearest uncle Roger has passed on. What a sad, sad day this is. Loved the bones of him. Generous, funny, beautiful and kind.”
While Russell Crowe posted a simpler tribute, tweeting: “Roger Moore, loved him.”
Pierce Brosnon, who took over the role of James Bond from Sir Roger, thanked the actor for being "a big part of my life".
Writing on his Facebook page, Pierce said: "Dear Sir Roger Moore. It is indeed with a heavy heart that I hear the news of your passing this morning.
"You were a big part of my life, from The Saint to James Bond... you were a magnificent James Bond and one that lead the way for me, the world will miss you and your unique sense of humor for years to come.
"My sincerest condolences to your family and children. RIP"
Piers Morgan told his online following: “As if today wasn't already sad enough. RIP Sir Roger Moore, 89. A wonderful actor & lovely man.”
And on hearing of his passing, Mia Farrow said: “Few are as kind and giving as was Roger Moore.
“Loving thoughts with his family and friends. He will be missed too by UNICEF.”
Gary Barber, CEO of film production company MGM, also paid tribute to the late actor, saying: "I am deeply saddened by the news of Roger Moore’s passing.
"Roger was a beloved part of the MGM family for decades and leaves behind a legacy of iconic film and television performances that will be revered for generations to come.
"His suave sophistication in his defining role as James Bond was matched only by his generosity and kindness.
"He bettered the lives of countless individuals around the world through his long-standing involvement with UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador.
Andrew Lloyd Webber told his Twitter followers: “Farewell dearest Roger. All our love, Andrew and Madeleine.”
Film Director Edgar Wright tweeted: “RIP Sir Roger Moore. My first Bond and one of the first actors that I loved as a kid. And a lovely, funny, warm person to boot. Farewell.”
David Walliams said: “Thank you @sirrogermoore Every time you appeared on screen from childhood to adulthood you never failed to bring a smile to my face.”
Kris Jenner also took the time to send her condolences to his family.
She said: “The ultimate James Bond... so sad to hear that Roger Moore has passed away. Thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Duncan Banntyne told his 855,000 Twitter followers: “So sad to hear of the death of Sir Roger Moore, a great ambassador for UNICEF & all round great guy RIP.”
While Boy George tweeted: “R.I.P Sir Roger Moore. He was the king of cool.”
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Gary Lineker also went online to pay tribute. He told his six million Twitter followers: “Saddened to hear Sir Roger Moore has passed away. James Bond should never die.”
PETA also thanked Sir Roger for the support he gave the charity over the years.
In a lengthy statement they said: “Animals have lost a dear friend with the passing of Sir Roger Moore.”
It continued: “Sir Roger was always an inspiration to work with. He called out animal abuse with wit and charm, and PETA will continue campaigning to help the animals he cared so deeply about.”
Sir Roger's dedication to the animal charity is an example of the humanitarian work he focused on for many of his final years.
The generosity earned him a knighthood. which he said “meant far more to me than if I had got it for acting … I was proud because I received it on behalf of Unicef as a whole and for all it has achieved over the years”.
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