Roger Moore, who played James Bond in seven films, has died at age 89.
His family confirmed via Twitter that he died following a short battle with cancer. The family released the following statement:
"With the heaviest of hearts, we must share the awful news that our father, Sir Roger Moore, passed away today. We are all devastated."
Moore was born on October 24, 1927, in south London. Prior to playing Bond, Moore made his mark via television. He rose to stardom through starring roles on Ivanhoe, Maverick, and, most notably, The Saint. But he is best known for playing James Bond, a role he accepted in 1972. Moore’s run as Bond began with Live and Let Die, released in 1973. It ended twelve years later, with A View to a Kill. Moore’s other feature films included The Wild Geese and Ffolkes.
In 1993, Moore was diagnosed with prostate cancer, from which he was cured through treatment.
After playing Bond, Moore focused his attention on humanitarian work, promoting UNICEF, a children’s organization affiliated with the United Nations. He took on the position at the urging on Audrey Hepburn, after he witnessed extreme poverty in India while filming Octopussy. Ever since, he traveled extensively promoting UNICEF. Moore was knighted in 2003.
In recent years, Moore has maintained a connection to the Bond franchise, frequently comenting on the state of the franchise. Of Daniel Craig, he said,:
"I believe he’s an excellent Bond. He’s much stronger than I am. I think he does a hell of a good job of it. He and Sean [Connery] are I think undoubtedly the best Bonds."
Sir Roger Moore is survived by three children and his wife, Kristina Tholstrup. His funeral will be held in Monaco.