Roger Moore's career in pictures
From James Bond to Simon Templar, Roger Moore performed his roles with style — and a touch of British humor. The star, who passed away in May, would have turned 90 today. Here's a look back at his biggest moments.
Star with style
Roger more had actually wanted to become a painter. But then he served in the British military and changed his plans. In 1953, Moore, of modest means at the time, moved to the US. He embarked on the film career that would make him world famous. Here are some of the British star's most significant roles.
Simon Templar — a modern Robin Hood
Working against drug lords and corrupt authorities, the charming gentleman Simon Templar alias Roger Moore investigated cases around the world and rescued women — Robin Hood-style — in dangerous situations. The TV series from 1962 was broadcast in 90 countries and launched Moore to global fame.
The aristocrat
They drive expensive cars, wear classy suits and chase ruthless gangsters. Roger Moore and Tony Curtis were the cool guys of their day. As the aristocrat Lord Brett Sinclair (Moore, left) and the American playboy Danny Wild (Curtis, right), the duo achieved cult status in the early 1970s in the series "The Persuaders."
A new James Bond
Roger Moore played the role of the womanizing Agent 007 seven times — as many times as Sean Connery. But Moore gave Bond a fresh image in 1973. Instead of smoking cigarettes, he preferred cigars, and instead of bourbon, he drank whisky. He also brought a great deal of irony and British humor to the role.
James Bond in space
With Roger Moore in the lead, the James Bond film "Moonraker" from 1979 is one of the most successful in the series. In the film, a space shuttle is stolen and Agent 007 is sent to the rescue. Moore portrays the British agent as an eloquent hero who doesn't even lose a drop of sweat in the most stressful of situations.
Walk of Fame
In October 2007, Roger Moore was honored with a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. It's not the actor's only accolade. In 2003, he received the Bundesverdienstkreuz — Germany's highest civilian honor — for his support of German-British relations. In the same year, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth. Back in 1980 already, he had received the Golden Globe Award for World Film Favorite.
Moore the philanthropist
Roger Moore became a UNICEF ambassador in 1991 and used his popularity to raise funds for under-privileged children — an endeavor he was fully committed to. For his philanthropy, the actor was awarded a Golden Camera in 1992. UNICEF has called Moore a "true friend" of children all over the world.