Sir Roger Moor, Bond of a Generation, Passes Away, at 89.

Bond fans the world over of various ages, myself included, are deeply saddened by the loss of one of the most popular and memorable actors. Moore’s career spanned decades and included many roles on the big screen, the small screen, the stage as well as a good number of voice acting credits. Though he is no doubt most famous for playing James Bond in seven films across 13 years (the only Bond actor to play the character with that distinction), he was also known for playing Simon Templar of the 1960’s TV series, The Saint, it was this show that kept him out of the running for playing the role when Sean Connery was cast. Off the screen though, Moore was an author of several books including a few about his time, experiences and reflections on playing Bond, something he embraced whole-heartedly, even humorously, poking fun at his own image, never taking himself too seriously, which undoubtedly made fans love him more. And yet, he also devoted 26 years of his life working with UNICEF and became an ambassador for children’s causes. Sir Roger Moore was a class act and a real human. On a personal note, I have been a Bond fan and subsequently a Roger Moore fan for nearly two decades. While it pleases me to know how full and rich his life had been, all he gave to the important causes he cared about and those who benefited from his care, how loved and respected he was and what he meant to so many people, his family included, both on and off screen, on and off stage, on and off the pages of the books he has written, news of his passing is still saddening. He had a tremendous influence on me during my formative years and as an October baby myself, I felt a special kinship with him. His sense of humor and genuine character will be sorely missed. See the note the touching note his children posted to his Twitter page informing fans of the news here.