How Roger Moore died and at what age
Sir Roger Moore died on 23 May 2017 at the age of 89. The cause was cancer, and his family confirmed his peaceful passing while honoring his lifelong humanitarian work. This verified explainer clarifies the circumstances, timeline, and legacy of the former James Bond actor. Below you will find key dates, publicly available confirmation from family and official statements, and a concise overview of his career achievements.
Confirmation of death and cause
Roger Moore passed away in 2017 after a battle with cancer. His representatives and close family stated he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. Public statements released shortly afterward confirmed his age at death as 89 and clarified that the illness was the primary cause, consistent with reports from reputable news agencies and family communications.
Key dates timeline
| Date | Event | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| 14 October 1927 | Birth in Stockwell, London | Establishes birth year baseline |
| 1973–1983 | James Bond films | Core recognition and cultural impact |
| 23 May 2017 | Date of death | Official confirmation of passing |
| 23 May 2017 | Age 89 | Age at death, widely reported |
Immediate family at his passing
Roger Moore was survived by his third wife, Kristina Tholstrup, and his children from previous marriages. Family statements emphasized his dedication to UNICEF and his calm, private approach to his final illness. No conflicting accounts of his last days have been publicly reported.
Legacy and career highlights
Roger Moore is best known for portraying James Bond in seven films between 1973 and 1983. Beyond Bond, he starred in numerous television and film projects and became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 1991, advocating for children’s rights worldwide. His measured style and philanthropic work remain part of his enduring reputation.
Notable distinctions and comparisons
Among the actors who played Bond, Moore held the record for oldest living former Bond for several years. Below is a concise comparison of key lifespan markers relevant to public interest.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Age at death | 89 years | Reported by family and news outlets |
| Date of death | 23 May 2017 | Official announcements |
| Place of death | Switzerland | Family statement |
| Primary cause | Cancer | Representatives’ statement |
| Years as active Bond | 1973–1983 | Film records |
- Longest-lived Bond actor at the time of his passing
- UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for more than 25 years
- Seven official Eon Productions James Bond films
Common questions about his death
Many searches focus on how, when, and where Roger Moore died. Verified sources confirm cancer as the cause, with family emphasizing his peaceful passing in Switzerland. Rumors suggesting otherwise have not been supported by reputable documentation or official statements.
Public reaction and remembrance
News of his death prompted reflections on his charm, professionalism, and long-standing humanitarian impact. Tributes highlighted his work with UNICEF, his dignified public persona, and his influence on the spy film genre. Social media and obituaries alike noted his status as a beloved cultural figure.
Why age and cause are frequently searched
High-profile departures often prompt queries about age at death, cause, and legacy. For Moore, enduring popularity and decades of Bond-related content sustain ongoing interest in these details. Reliable sources, including family statements and reputable media, consistently align on the basic facts.
Summary
Roger Moore died at 89, with cancer as the reported cause. Confirmations from family and official channels remain consistent across reputable outlets. His tenure as James Bond and long-term humanitarian engagement define much of his lasting public legacy.