James Bond Actor Roger Moore Dead at 89-UPI

Roger Moore signs copies of the book "Bond on Bond" in New York on November 9, 2012. The actor died Tuesday after a short battle with cancer. File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI| License Photo

 

May 23 (UPI) -- James Bond actor Roger Moore died Tuesday at age 89.

The British star, who played 007 in seven films, died in Switzerland after a short battle with cancer, Moore's children said on his social media accounts.

"It is with a heavy heart that we must announce our loving father, Sir Roger Moore, has passed away today in Switzerland after a short but brave battle with cancer," Deborah, Geoffrey and Christian Moore wrote.

"The love with which he was surrounded in his final days was so great it cannot be quantified in words alone," the trio added. "Thank you Pops for being you, and for being so very special to so many people."

Moore shared Deborah, Geoffrey and Christian with his third wife, Italian actress Luisa Mattoli. He is also survived by wife Kristina Tholstrup, whom he married in 2002.

"Our thoughts must now turn to supporting Kristina at this difficult time, and in accordance with our father's wishes there will be a private funeral in Monaco," the actor's children said. Moore first played James Bond in Live and Let Die (1973), and last portrayed the character in A View to Kill (1985). He later appeared in The Man Who Wouldn't Die, Spice World and Boat Trip, and was also known for his humanitarian work with UNICEF.

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