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My Word Is My Bond: The Autobiography
The quintessential suave hero, Roger Moore has enjoyed a successful career that has spanned seven decades, from early television through the golden age of Hollywood and on to international superstardom. Dashing, handsome, and every inch the archetypal English gentleman, he is most widely known for making seven blockbuster films as arguably the most debonair 007 of all time. He has worked with some of the world’s most legendary stars, including such luminaries as Noel Coward, Sean Connery, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Lana Turner, Gregory Peck, Cary Grant, Richard Harris, and Michael Caine. For the first time, Roger shares his recollections of playing some of the world’s most famous roles as well as myriad stories from his personal life, including events from his childhood in London and his experiences during World War II. Filled with anecdotes from his encounters with celebrities of every variety and his memories from the heydays of Hollywood, this is a frank, funny, and disarmingly charming story of a life lived among the stars.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published October 2, 2008
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1353 people want to read
About the author
Roger Moore
92 books21 followersFor the fantasy author/RPG writer see Roger Moore; for the photographer see Roger “Mzungu” Moore; for the poet see Roger Moore, and for others see Roger Moore
Sir Roger George Moore, KBE was an English actor and film producer, perhaps best known for portraying British secret agent James Bond in seven films from 1973 to 1985, and also Simon Templar in the TV series The Saint from 1962 to 1969. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2007. A UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, in 2003 he was knighted in recognition of his humanitarian services, in 2008 appointed a Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government, and in 2012 awarded an honourary doctorate by the University of Hertfordshire.
Sir Roger George Moore, KBE was an English actor and film producer, perhaps best known for portraying British secret agent James Bond in seven films from 1973 to 1985, and also Simon Templar in the TV series The Saint from 1962 to 1969. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2007. A UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, in 2003 he was knighted in recognition of his humanitarian services, in 2008 appointed a Commandeur of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government, and in 2012 awarded an honourary doctorate by the University of Hertfordshire.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
October 12, 2020
The best thing about Roger Moore's James Bond was his sense of humour,the best thing about this book is that it made me laugh on numerous occasions.
In the beginning,he mentions that he had already written most of this book,when the manuscript was lost,and he had to write it all over again.Who knows,that first draft might have been even better.
He talks about his humble origins,surviving German bombing in World War II and early struggles as an actor.There are several behind the scenes stories from the Bond years.
But it left me wanting more,it was as if he was holding something back,and not telling the whole story.Maybe,it was because,as he says,he didn't want to say too many negative things about people.
I was also interested to read about his friend,David Niven.According to Moore,he told splendid stories,but also embellished them.Moore's book is light,refreshing and a lot of fun.
In the beginning,he mentions that he had already written most of this book,when the manuscript was lost,and he had to write it all over again.Who knows,that first draft might have been even better.
He talks about his humble origins,surviving German bombing in World War II and early struggles as an actor.There are several behind the scenes stories from the Bond years.
But it left me wanting more,it was as if he was holding something back,and not telling the whole story.Maybe,it was because,as he says,he didn't want to say too many negative things about people.
I was also interested to read about his friend,David Niven.According to Moore,he told splendid stories,but also embellished them.Moore's book is light,refreshing and a lot of fun.
June 23, 2019
Being a Roger Moore fan he delivers an autobiography that is true to himself. He remains a gentleman and when he doesn't have nice words to say he rather says nothing (while the reader gets to detect his real feelings he never is really negative about any person in this book . This is something he does state in the beginning, it is not an autobiography that is out to be negative about other people).
It is a charming book that covers most of his life and the man, he does deliver it in a charming and light-footed way that is a pleasure to read and true to nature.
( 23-06-2019 - A grammatical cleanup is the reason for this change in the review, apologies for any inconvenience caused.)
It is a charming book that covers most of his life and the man, he does deliver it in a charming and light-footed way that is a pleasure to read and true to nature.
( 23-06-2019 - A grammatical cleanup is the reason for this change in the review, apologies for any inconvenience caused.)
February 27, 2023
My Word is My Bond (2008) is a very enjoyable trawl through Roger Moore's life and times.
I grew up with The Saint, The Persuaders and, of course, his tenure as James Bond. He was always my favourite Bond, and Live and Let Die is my favourite Bond film.
In addition to his work in film and televison he has worked for many years with UNICEF, a part of his life that was completely new to me.
Roger Moore is amusing, self deprecating and has some good stories. Maybe four stars is a bit on the generous side, as I have read much better autobiographies, however there's something very disarming about Roger so I am erring on the side of generosity (and I don't do halves)
4/5
I grew up with The Saint, The Persuaders and, of course, his tenure as James Bond. He was always my favourite Bond, and Live and Let Die is my favourite Bond film.
In addition to his work in film and televison he has worked for many years with UNICEF, a part of his life that was completely new to me.
Roger Moore is amusing, self deprecating and has some good stories. Maybe four stars is a bit on the generous side, as I have read much better autobiographies, however there's something very disarming about Roger so I am erring on the side of generosity (and I don't do halves)
4/5
September 26, 2011
This book is exactly like Roger Moore's onscreen persona - kind, gentle, witty, naughty...and just a tad bitchy at times (well, forthright, if you prefer). It reads like he dictated the whole thing to someone (a ghost-writer quite likely) and then later went over and edited and rewrote bits.
And it's all the better for it! Because this is not one of those star biographies posing as the 'real truth' about so-and-so or claiming to be a serious piece of non-fiction. It's his story, in his words, in his 'voice' as it were, and that's half the pleasure and delight of it.
The story is a wonderful one, filled within incident and starry name-dropping, and endless anecdotes and asides that still manage to string together as a coherent chronological 'life'. Many of the famous names are from before my time, or half-heard names vaguely recalled. Some of course are contemporary or still around. It makes no difference. Moore has a knack for picking just the right story to tell, and giving it just the right amount of coverage. He makes no bones about his own faults, even as he takes the opportunity to set the record straight on a number of minor and major points, and takes any number of digs at himself as well as others.
It's all terribly good fun in a very British sense of humor and style, and I loved it to bits. I actually slowed down because I wanted to savor all the stories, and took my time finishing it.
A lovely, charming entertainment from a charming and lovely entertainer. A real treat.
And it's all the better for it! Because this is not one of those star biographies posing as the 'real truth' about so-and-so or claiming to be a serious piece of non-fiction. It's his story, in his words, in his 'voice' as it were, and that's half the pleasure and delight of it.
The story is a wonderful one, filled within incident and starry name-dropping, and endless anecdotes and asides that still manage to string together as a coherent chronological 'life'. Many of the famous names are from before my time, or half-heard names vaguely recalled. Some of course are contemporary or still around. It makes no difference. Moore has a knack for picking just the right story to tell, and giving it just the right amount of coverage. He makes no bones about his own faults, even as he takes the opportunity to set the record straight on a number of minor and major points, and takes any number of digs at himself as well as others.
It's all terribly good fun in a very British sense of humor and style, and I loved it to bits. I actually slowed down because I wanted to savor all the stories, and took my time finishing it.
A lovely, charming entertainment from a charming and lovely entertainer. A real treat.
August 23, 2016
Roger Moore's 2008 memoir is a must read if you enjoy his films. Moore has often been described as a raconteur and this book lives up to that expectation. As a reader you feel like you're seated with him at your favorite restaurant sipping wine as he relates colorful anecdotes of his long storied career as well as his early childhood. Born in Stockwell, his childhood was plagued by illness and having to evacuate his home town to live in Devon while the threat of bombing raids loomed over London. Moore paints a colorful portrait of his early life and career and provides a rather insightful view into the latter days of the Hollywood studio system where actors would be under exclusive contract to a film making studio and the heads of these studios wielded enormous power and control over the careers of the actors employed by them. Mostly Moore recounts his life and career in a self-deprecating and charming manner. His one weakness is his habit of name-dropping throughout the book, which is a flaw that even he confesses to. His lifetime of experience along with the many show business friendships he's made prove fascinating throughout the book especially his recollections of his time as both The Saint and James Bond. What drives the latter part of the book is his commitment to UNICEF, and we learn that despite his life of privilege Moore has done a remarkable job giving back to the world at large through his dedication to UNICEF bringing awareness to the struggle to help children in need around the globe. His major cause since he joined the organization in 1991 is to raise funds and awareness for Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) in many third world countries. It's a preventable problem that can be resolved by simply ensuring that every household uses iodized salt to avoid all sorts of maladies and mental disorders. Moore frequently meets with heads of state on behalf of UNICEF to urge them to combat IDD in their poorest communities. Roger has led a fascinating life and he is to be commended for his commitment to UNICEF.
September 1, 2019
I read a good bit of this book at work. I would sit at my office desk--as I like to do, especially on cold days--and read while I took my lunch break, scarfing down my food so I could spend more time with the book. On more than one occasion, someone came to my office door and looked at me like I'd lost my mind because I'd burst out laughing for no apparent reason. Thanks for that, Rog!
This book was a very fun read, chock-full of interesting stories and witty humor. It's written in such a way that you feel as though Roger Moore were sitting next to you, telling you these stories verbally; it's charming, genuine, and of course, as one would expect of Moore, delightfully tongue-in-cheek. My only complaint is that some of his stories begged for more detail; for example, the one where his mother called him after an incident where a horse stepped on his foot (while he was filming Interrupted Melody) led to a widespread rumor that he’d been “trampled to death by wild horses.” When I read that I immediately thought, “What did she say? 'Hi, just checking in to see that you're not dead'? How did that whole mess get resolved?” I would have liked a bit more information here and there. But nevertheless, I enjoyed the book immensely!
Rest in peace, Rog. The world lost a gem of a person when you left.
This book was a very fun read, chock-full of interesting stories and witty humor. It's written in such a way that you feel as though Roger Moore were sitting next to you, telling you these stories verbally; it's charming, genuine, and of course, as one would expect of Moore, delightfully tongue-in-cheek. My only complaint is that some of his stories begged for more detail; for example, the one where his mother called him after an incident where a horse stepped on his foot (while he was filming Interrupted Melody) led to a widespread rumor that he’d been “trampled to death by wild horses.” When I read that I immediately thought, “What did she say? 'Hi, just checking in to see that you're not dead'? How did that whole mess get resolved?” I would have liked a bit more information here and there. But nevertheless, I enjoyed the book immensely!
Rest in peace, Rog. The world lost a gem of a person when you left.
January 29, 2015
When I began using an ebook reader about two and a half years ago, my reading life changed dramatically. I had been one of those who said it would never replace paper--and it won't. But when you live as I do in a place where printed books in English are astronomically expensive, even second-hand, with a climate that destroys paperbacks no matter how you try to preserve them, and you read like other people breathe, they are definitely the answer. However I discovered that like a child let loose in a sweet shop, I had developed a naughty habit of sampling, tasting, skimming and skipping, seldom finishing a book before starting another.
Roger Moore's Word is My Bond certainly caught this reader's attention and held it. I am fascinated by cinema history--not the "dirt dishing tittle tattle" Mr. Moore doesn't provide, but the behind-the-scenes stories of the process of acting, filming, characterisation--and the characters themselves, both on paper and in real life. Moore is definitely a gentleman scamp; he tells on himself more than others, and we can measure the degree of his dislike of another person by his silence about them. "I was taught if I didn't have anything pleasant to say about someone, not to say anything, so I'll say nothing." Wow--volumes, right there.
Moore doesn't try to make himself out to be a hero; he is honest about his love of "silly schoolboy" jokes and about how some of them were poorly received. He speaks frankly about the breakup of his first marriage, but glosses over exactly how he discovered that his beloved Kristina was his "soulmate". I may have missed something, but suddenly his long-term relationship with partner Luisa is simply history, and he's off with his new love. Where did they meet? Did I miss that part? Or did Gentleman Roger simply leave it out?
Roger Moore was my second great onscreen love, my first being Tony Curtis, at about age 6. I waited until my impressionable adolescence (and The Persuaders) to fall for Lord Brett Sinclair, later James Bond. I enjoyed this amusing, well-told autobiography, though I will admit skipping through the UNICEF section at the end of the book. Where I live in S. Europe, the local branches of UNICEF and the Red Cross are less altruistic and conscientious with contributions than seems to be Mr. Moore's experience. Perhaps celebrity ambassadors don't know what happens in the depots on the ground in some areas.
Roger Moore's Word is My Bond certainly caught this reader's attention and held it. I am fascinated by cinema history--not the "dirt dishing tittle tattle" Mr. Moore doesn't provide, but the behind-the-scenes stories of the process of acting, filming, characterisation--and the characters themselves, both on paper and in real life. Moore is definitely a gentleman scamp; he tells on himself more than others, and we can measure the degree of his dislike of another person by his silence about them. "I was taught if I didn't have anything pleasant to say about someone, not to say anything, so I'll say nothing." Wow--volumes, right there.
Moore doesn't try to make himself out to be a hero; he is honest about his love of "silly schoolboy" jokes and about how some of them were poorly received. He speaks frankly about the breakup of his first marriage, but glosses over exactly how he discovered that his beloved Kristina was his "soulmate". I may have missed something, but suddenly his long-term relationship with partner Luisa is simply history, and he's off with his new love. Where did they meet? Did I miss that part? Or did Gentleman Roger simply leave it out?
Roger Moore was my second great onscreen love, my first being Tony Curtis, at about age 6. I waited until my impressionable adolescence (and The Persuaders) to fall for Lord Brett Sinclair, later James Bond. I enjoyed this amusing, well-told autobiography, though I will admit skipping through the UNICEF section at the end of the book. Where I live in S. Europe, the local branches of UNICEF and the Red Cross are less altruistic and conscientious with contributions than seems to be Mr. Moore's experience. Perhaps celebrity ambassadors don't know what happens in the depots on the ground in some areas.
December 7, 2018
Read this many years ago, excellent book, an indepth look into the life of one of the biggest TV stars of my lifetime, enjoyable book, got a different perspective to a idol of mine.
August 27, 2021
What a terrible namedropper Roger is - but it's impossible not to love his account of going from Stockwell to James Bond and beyond. I found the early Hollywood and pre-Saint TV stuff especially fascinating. Favourite titbit: Val Kilmer concluding that his movie had done the original Saint stories a disservice.
There's a lot about Moore's work with Unicef, so it's fitting that I finished it on the eve of a swim to raise money for the charity. What a nice chap, and so missed.
There's a lot about Moore's work with Unicef, so it's fitting that I finished it on the eve of a swim to raise money for the charity. What a nice chap, and so missed.
February 4, 2010
Reason for Reading: Roger Moore is the Bond I grew up with, the one I went to the movies to see as a teenager.
Comments: Right from the introduction Mr. Moore states that he will not be 'dirt-dishing' nor telling 'tittle tattle'; he wants to write a fun book filled with memories the way he saw them and the wonderful people he met in his life but he promises that does not mean it will be a 'fluffy book' either. Roger Moore lives up to this statement giving the reader a very enjoyable look inside his life without trashing anyone. He does mention a couple of names that he simply hates with a straightforward reason why, he tells stories leaving the irritating one unnamed and he mentions names and follows the "if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all rule" frequently. But Roger Moore is a charming fellow, very easy going, loves a prank or two, and can take a joke on himself as well so his book is filled with people he adored and those who adored him back.
Moore spends a good part of the book on his early life in England; his childhood, days in the army, acting on stage, becoming an actor in British movies. This was all very interesting and it's hard to believe that Roger Moore is really that old to have been in WWII! Even when acting in Britain the famous names start knocking about such as David Niven (a lifetime friend) and Michael Caine. Then he comes to America and makes a name for himself on the small screen starring in Maverick (replacing James Garner as his British cousin), then his famous Simon Templar as The Saint and finally The Persuaders with Tony Curtis. Not until we are closing in on page 200 does Roger Moore get to James Bond and the book has been so interesting up to this point that Bond is not the vital part of the book. Even if you started to read the because of the Bond connection. I won't go into any more details but from their Moore continues on with Bond, his wives, his other movies and work, ending finally with his long association with UNICEF.
Moore comes across just as I had expected him too. He keeps his debonair, suave, gentlemanly air about him but he also has his tongue firmly planted in cheek at the same time. Even as a child he behaved this way, he calls himself on it frequently saying "ever the poseur". He tells some wonderful memories and anecdotes as he's been with all the greats throughout his career: Elizabeth Taylor, Cary Grant, Gregory Peck, Noel Coward, Stewart Granger, Richard Burton and countless others.
The only thing I didn't enjoy about the book was the last few chapters which mostly focused pretty heavily on his UNICEF activities that it began to feel like an infomercial. I will state I don't support UNICEF for conscience reasons but I did enjoy hearing of the travel and good work he accomplished. But then it just seriously devolved into three chapters about UNICEF with Roger as the emcee. Otherwise, I had a very enjoyable read and certainly learned a lot more about the man who I previously only knew as The Saint and James Bond.
Comments: Right from the introduction Mr. Moore states that he will not be 'dirt-dishing' nor telling 'tittle tattle'; he wants to write a fun book filled with memories the way he saw them and the wonderful people he met in his life but he promises that does not mean it will be a 'fluffy book' either. Roger Moore lives up to this statement giving the reader a very enjoyable look inside his life without trashing anyone. He does mention a couple of names that he simply hates with a straightforward reason why, he tells stories leaving the irritating one unnamed and he mentions names and follows the "if you have nothing nice to say, don't say anything at all rule" frequently. But Roger Moore is a charming fellow, very easy going, loves a prank or two, and can take a joke on himself as well so his book is filled with people he adored and those who adored him back.
Moore spends a good part of the book on his early life in England; his childhood, days in the army, acting on stage, becoming an actor in British movies. This was all very interesting and it's hard to believe that Roger Moore is really that old to have been in WWII! Even when acting in Britain the famous names start knocking about such as David Niven (a lifetime friend) and Michael Caine. Then he comes to America and makes a name for himself on the small screen starring in Maverick (replacing James Garner as his British cousin), then his famous Simon Templar as The Saint and finally The Persuaders with Tony Curtis. Not until we are closing in on page 200 does Roger Moore get to James Bond and the book has been so interesting up to this point that Bond is not the vital part of the book. Even if you started to read the because of the Bond connection. I won't go into any more details but from their Moore continues on with Bond, his wives, his other movies and work, ending finally with his long association with UNICEF.
Moore comes across just as I had expected him too. He keeps his debonair, suave, gentlemanly air about him but he also has his tongue firmly planted in cheek at the same time. Even as a child he behaved this way, he calls himself on it frequently saying "ever the poseur". He tells some wonderful memories and anecdotes as he's been with all the greats throughout his career: Elizabeth Taylor, Cary Grant, Gregory Peck, Noel Coward, Stewart Granger, Richard Burton and countless others.
The only thing I didn't enjoy about the book was the last few chapters which mostly focused pretty heavily on his UNICEF activities that it began to feel like an infomercial. I will state I don't support UNICEF for conscience reasons but I did enjoy hearing of the travel and good work he accomplished. But then it just seriously devolved into three chapters about UNICEF with Roger as the emcee. Otherwise, I had a very enjoyable read and certainly learned a lot more about the man who I previously only knew as The Saint and James Bond.
February 14, 2009
I liked this book, but didn't love it. I would only recommend it to someone who already likes Moore - I liked his James Bond a lot and when I saw this book at the library I picked it up.
Moore is funny and his writing is mostly fun to read. He does, however, have a sincere love of of all potty humor/crotch related jokes. That wore a bit thin for me, and he freely admits that he's a schoolboy in the humor department. I liked the way Moore is free with his compliments, always describing people he liked as "the incredibly handsome Mr. Niven" or "charming and beautiful wife" of whoever. I really got the feeling he's as charming and casual as he seems as James Bond.
I didn't feel like I learned a whole bunch about him, though. He goes into great detail about all the film projects he's involved in (most of which I've never even heard of), naming each person involved -which was kind of a yawn. Sorry, Rog. Also, I'd have liked to know more about his personal life- he mentions his children and wives but kind of in passing, as the book seems mostly focused on the details of his career. I was surprised to hear how even as an older man, well off, he's mainly working for the money involved, not the project itself. Oh, and he did have funny stories to tell about various people that he's worked with (....unfortunately many of them involving his schoolboy humor...)
So bottom line is I liked it, but wouldn't really recommend it to anyone but a Roger Moore fan.
Moore is funny and his writing is mostly fun to read. He does, however, have a sincere love of of all potty humor/crotch related jokes. That wore a bit thin for me, and he freely admits that he's a schoolboy in the humor department. I liked the way Moore is free with his compliments, always describing people he liked as "the incredibly handsome Mr. Niven" or "charming and beautiful wife" of whoever. I really got the feeling he's as charming and casual as he seems as James Bond.
I didn't feel like I learned a whole bunch about him, though. He goes into great detail about all the film projects he's involved in (most of which I've never even heard of), naming each person involved -which was kind of a yawn. Sorry, Rog. Also, I'd have liked to know more about his personal life- he mentions his children and wives but kind of in passing, as the book seems mostly focused on the details of his career. I was surprised to hear how even as an older man, well off, he's mainly working for the money involved, not the project itself. Oh, and he did have funny stories to tell about various people that he's worked with (....unfortunately many of them involving his schoolboy humor...)
So bottom line is I liked it, but wouldn't really recommend it to anyone but a Roger Moore fan.
April 19, 2010
Moore's good humor and engaging personality comes through on every page of his memoir. Although the book is a fairly superficial skimming of his life and career, there's still plenty of amusing anecdotes and production details for die-hard MAVERICK, SAINT, PERSUADERS and Bond fans (the stories about THE PERSUADERS are particularly entertaining). But readers looking for scandalous details about his love life, or those of other Hollywood personalities, will be disappointed. Overall, it's a fast, informative, and fun read.
May 16, 2016
Of course I didn't read this in one day...but forgot to update my status here on Goodreads. I bought a Kindle version of this book for $.99 and it was worth that, at least. Not badly written, some interesting information, especially about Mr. Moore's charity passion, UNICEF...but much repetitive style recountings of his movies and television projects. He does have some witty stories and tells them quite well, but I was starting to lag in my interest towards the last third of the book.
June 7, 2024
He’s not my favourite Bond… clearly that’s Pierce, but what a lovely man Roger is and who appears grateful for all the opportunities he had
July 11, 2020
Sir Roger Moore started to pen this memoir of his life in 1990s only to have it stolen in a robbery. He restarted in 2007 and the result is this 2008 book. He shares with the reader his personal struggles, professional sojourn and affairs of the heart. Early on, Moore recounts his physical health bouts in his youth and his personal beliefs. Moore states that he was 'an unspoilt, forthright, a down-to earth individual' and he shows that throughout his memoirs. From his early days acting in 'costumer' movies for MGM and several of dramas for Warner Brothers to his appearances on television shows like Maverick and The Alaskans, Moore pursued his desire to grow as an actor. In the 1960s, The Saint brought him fame and financial rewards. At the start of the 1970s, Moore continued as a television actor on the television series, The Persuaders, co-starring Tony Curtis. He continued to make movies but international stardom eluded him until Bond producer, Cubby Broccoli came calling. Moore's professional fame exploded when he was cast as James Bond in 'Live And Let Die' in 1972. His humor and boyish grin created a new bond persona and catapulted Moore to stardom international star. As he continued to make Bond movies other movie roles opened up for Moore. But Roger Moore he never forgot his family's working class roots and how lucky he was in his life. Throughout his memoir, Moore is honest about his shortcomings in his personal and professional life. He lays it all out in regard to his failed marriages and how his last marriage to Kristina was the loving relationship and friendship that he always needed. As his acting career waned, Moore became active in charitable work. His dear friend, Audrey Hepburn introduced him to the work of UNICEF in 1991. He would dedicate himself for the last three decades of his life to being an ambassador and fundraiser for UNICEF. Sharing his love for charitable humanitarian work, Danny Kaye would introduce him to other organizations. In time Moore added to his UNICEF work. He joined Elton John in advocating for finding a cure for HIV/AIDS, raise money for the Kiwanis Clubs, and The Rotary Foundation. For his work, Moore was knighted, given a CBE, and honored by many nations. Through it all, Moore valued his children and his friendships. Among his most dear friendships were those with Lord Lew Grade, Noel Coward, David Niven, Audrey Hepburn, Cary Grant, Leslie Bricusse, Cubby Broccoli, Frank Sinatra, Gregory Peck, Christopher Lee, Patrick McNee and Danny Kaye. Above all, Moore enjoyed his life and was thankful for being able to entertain and help people.
January 10, 2025
I've long been a fan of Roger's work - from The Saint, The Persuaders and through to his time as Bond - he was the first Bond I saw at the cinema, and has always been my favorite actor in the role.
So it was fascinating to pick up his autobiog - written when he turned 80.
The early years were so interesting - I didn't realize he'd had such humble beginnings, and I loved his recollections of the war years, National Service, and how he serendipitously got into acting.
He then takes us on a journey through the decades as he finds fame and fortune - and also has four wives!
The final chapters deal with his work around the world representing UNICEF, and how he became an ambassador for their vital work with children.
He comes across as very amiable and likeable, and regales us with plenty of anecdotes and behind the scenes shenanigans.
All in all, a very enjoyable read of one of Britain's true legends of cinema.
So it was fascinating to pick up his autobiog - written when he turned 80.
The early years were so interesting - I didn't realize he'd had such humble beginnings, and I loved his recollections of the war years, National Service, and how he serendipitously got into acting.
He then takes us on a journey through the decades as he finds fame and fortune - and also has four wives!
The final chapters deal with his work around the world representing UNICEF, and how he became an ambassador for their vital work with children.
He comes across as very amiable and likeable, and regales us with plenty of anecdotes and behind the scenes shenanigans.
All in all, a very enjoyable read of one of Britain's true legends of cinema.
September 29, 2019
A look back at the life of Roger Moore, best known for playing The Saint and James Bond. From his early childhood through to his work with UNICEF later on, this is a more a look at his life's work, and although his wife (and ex-wives) and children are mentioned, it covers his career more than anything.
I was never the biggest Moore fan especially as Bond, I much preferred Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan in the role. Moore does come across as a pretty decent guy, he's very candid about his willingness to work for a fat paycheck, and you get the feeling he never took himself too seriously. In fact it seems he was quite the practical joker on set. It turned out to be a very interesting read and the final line about wanting to be around forever was rather poignant, given that Moore died in 2017. RIP.
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I was never the biggest Moore fan especially as Bond, I much preferred Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan in the role. Moore does come across as a pretty decent guy, he's very candid about his willingness to work for a fat paycheck, and you get the feeling he never took himself too seriously. In fact it seems he was quite the practical joker on set. It turned out to be a very interesting read and the final line about wanting to be around forever was rather poignant, given that Moore died in 2017. RIP.
*Read via Kindle Unlimited*
June 16, 2025
Great stories, even if you're not a Bond fan.
I've never watched a James Bond movie in my life, nor have I ever seen an episode of the popular BBC series "The Saint." In fact, I've never seen Roger Moore on any screen - large or small. But he endeared himself to me years ago when an unimaginative interviewer asked him if he resented being "typecast" as James Bond. Moore said that he felt lucky to have played Bond and professed a great fondness for the character. "James Bond fed my children and clothed my wife for many years and you'll never hear me say a word against him."
That statement shows the charm and common sense that made Moore an actor that everyone wanted to work with. In this book, he describes himself as "suave, modest, sophisticated, talented, modest, debonair, modest and charming...." He must have had a healthy ego (no entertainer succeeds without one) but his was under control at all times. No whining because he was "forced" to play an action hero (for a LOT of money!) because "the critics won't accept me as Hamlet." He worked hard at his career, but he was also appreciative of his good luck, a rare thing among actors.
As always, my favorite part was the story of his childhood. Some readers may be surprised that the quintessential English gentleman was the son of a working class couple. What set him apart from his peers is that he was an only child, so all his parents' time and resources went to him. It gave him an edge, no way around it.
It's fascinating to me to read memoirs of English actors and compare their career paths with those of American actors from the same era. The English took acting seriously and Moore trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. The idea was to produce traditional theater actors. If those actors had to make an occasional film to pay the bills, that was an unavoidable evil, but the GOAL was the stage. In the U.S. the film studios hired for looks and expected young actors to learn to act by playing bit parts or acting in B movies. It was strictly on-the-job-training, with the expected results.
Moore was a graduate of both system, having trained at the Royal Academy and then traveled to Hollywood, where his good looks were much appreciated. But he became well-known from the long-running BBC series "The Saint" and (of course) from his term as James Bond. Except for a short time, he was always based in Europe and the trend toward making American movies in Europe unquestionably boosted his career.
His stories are fun to read, partly because he was a man who never limited himself to the friendships of other entertainers. He knew writers and politicians and businessmen and those relationships give his memoirs a wider scope than those of most actors. He was truly a "man of the world." And he achieve fame and fortune without alienating his colleagues. Every time I've read an entertainer's memoir which mentions Roger Moore, the mention has always been an affectionate, admiring one. The man tried to be easy to work with and people appreciated it.
He says at the beginning that the reader should expect lots about illnesses, from childhood on. Moore was always the picture of glowing good health, but looks can be deceptive. He lived to be 89 and died after a "brief bout with cancer." Was he really frail or a hypochondria or a little of both?
He was a "ladies man" in every sense of the word. He was only 18 years old when he married a fellow student at the Academy. When that marriage ended, he married a popular Welsh singer who was twelve years older than he. He dumped her for a beautiful Italian actress, who was his wife for over thirty years and the mother of his three children. When that marriage ended, he married the wife who out-lived him. From 18 to 89, he was never single for more than a few months. A family man? Maybe.
I suspect that his second marriage was at least partially a career move, since Dorothy Squires was well-known and being married to her helped him meet powerful people and get established. in an interview, he once claimed that both his first and second wives were physically violent, but he never mentions that in this book. He does hint that his third wife was difficult to live with. Could his frequent absences and suspected infidelities have had something to do with that?
He warns the reader not to expect any show biz dirt, that he prefers not to mention people he doesn't like. The only exceptions were his third wife and his friend David Niven's second wife. Moore was correct in calling himself "sophisticated", but he was also a traditional man. A husband was expected to provide a luxurious life for his wife, who was expected to look the other way when her husband was unfaithful. This unspoken "bargain" seems to have formed the basis of many actors' marriages.
He comes through as an ambitious man who worked hard and took advantage of every opportunity. His affability may have been real or assumed, but it helped his career. He was an active force in UNICEF fund raising, traveling to poverty-stricken places and using his fame and popularity to publicize problems and bring relief.
It's not an earth-shaking book, but it's a consistently entertaining one.
I've never watched a James Bond movie in my life, nor have I ever seen an episode of the popular BBC series "The Saint." In fact, I've never seen Roger Moore on any screen - large or small. But he endeared himself to me years ago when an unimaginative interviewer asked him if he resented being "typecast" as James Bond. Moore said that he felt lucky to have played Bond and professed a great fondness for the character. "James Bond fed my children and clothed my wife for many years and you'll never hear me say a word against him."
That statement shows the charm and common sense that made Moore an actor that everyone wanted to work with. In this book, he describes himself as "suave, modest, sophisticated, talented, modest, debonair, modest and charming...." He must have had a healthy ego (no entertainer succeeds without one) but his was under control at all times. No whining because he was "forced" to play an action hero (for a LOT of money!) because "the critics won't accept me as Hamlet." He worked hard at his career, but he was also appreciative of his good luck, a rare thing among actors.
As always, my favorite part was the story of his childhood. Some readers may be surprised that the quintessential English gentleman was the son of a working class couple. What set him apart from his peers is that he was an only child, so all his parents' time and resources went to him. It gave him an edge, no way around it.
It's fascinating to me to read memoirs of English actors and compare their career paths with those of American actors from the same era. The English took acting seriously and Moore trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. The idea was to produce traditional theater actors. If those actors had to make an occasional film to pay the bills, that was an unavoidable evil, but the GOAL was the stage. In the U.S. the film studios hired for looks and expected young actors to learn to act by playing bit parts or acting in B movies. It was strictly on-the-job-training, with the expected results.
Moore was a graduate of both system, having trained at the Royal Academy and then traveled to Hollywood, where his good looks were much appreciated. But he became well-known from the long-running BBC series "The Saint" and (of course) from his term as James Bond. Except for a short time, he was always based in Europe and the trend toward making American movies in Europe unquestionably boosted his career.
His stories are fun to read, partly because he was a man who never limited himself to the friendships of other entertainers. He knew writers and politicians and businessmen and those relationships give his memoirs a wider scope than those of most actors. He was truly a "man of the world." And he achieve fame and fortune without alienating his colleagues. Every time I've read an entertainer's memoir which mentions Roger Moore, the mention has always been an affectionate, admiring one. The man tried to be easy to work with and people appreciated it.
He says at the beginning that the reader should expect lots about illnesses, from childhood on. Moore was always the picture of glowing good health, but looks can be deceptive. He lived to be 89 and died after a "brief bout with cancer." Was he really frail or a hypochondria or a little of both?
He was a "ladies man" in every sense of the word. He was only 18 years old when he married a fellow student at the Academy. When that marriage ended, he married a popular Welsh singer who was twelve years older than he. He dumped her for a beautiful Italian actress, who was his wife for over thirty years and the mother of his three children. When that marriage ended, he married the wife who out-lived him. From 18 to 89, he was never single for more than a few months. A family man? Maybe.
I suspect that his second marriage was at least partially a career move, since Dorothy Squires was well-known and being married to her helped him meet powerful people and get established. in an interview, he once claimed that both his first and second wives were physically violent, but he never mentions that in this book. He does hint that his third wife was difficult to live with. Could his frequent absences and suspected infidelities have had something to do with that?
He warns the reader not to expect any show biz dirt, that he prefers not to mention people he doesn't like. The only exceptions were his third wife and his friend David Niven's second wife. Moore was correct in calling himself "sophisticated", but he was also a traditional man. A husband was expected to provide a luxurious life for his wife, who was expected to look the other way when her husband was unfaithful. This unspoken "bargain" seems to have formed the basis of many actors' marriages.
He comes through as an ambitious man who worked hard and took advantage of every opportunity. His affability may have been real or assumed, but it helped his career. He was an active force in UNICEF fund raising, traveling to poverty-stricken places and using his fame and popularity to publicize problems and bring relief.
It's not an earth-shaking book, but it's a consistently entertaining one.
January 4, 2023
This is undoubtedly the most charming, frank, exhilarating, funny, and at times sobering Autobiography that I have EVER read.
Reading it made me realise, I am not the only one who found Roger Moore as the best Bond.
Many others have also found this gallant knight to be the Bond with the best one-liners.
Overall, it was a refreshing read.
Recommended.
Reading it made me realise, I am not the only one who found Roger Moore as the best Bond.
Many others have also found this gallant knight to be the Bond with the best one-liners.
Overall, it was a refreshing read.
Recommended.
January 12, 2023
An interesting read, I only knew him from James Bond but he did so much before that happened, not to mention all his UNICEF work around the world RIP Roger you will be missed by many
August 26, 2022
I was pretty disappointed with this. The early years were interesting, but once we get to his James Bond years, I felt the book became rather dry. Whilst laudable, his charitable work for unicef takes up the last few chapters and is just not that interesting.
July 13, 2015
A delightful autobiography from Bond actor Roger Moore, this book ably puts across the movie star's own distinctive brand of self-deprecation, wit, and wry humour. It's a very quick read too, skirting quickly from Moore's pre-war childhood in London to his antics in the war years and his gradual move into acting in the late '40s. Seeing his career develop from TV in the 1950s to world-wide super-stardom in the 1970s makes for a thoroughly engaging read.
Be warned: Moore is a fan of lowbrow humour, and the language in this book is salty, to say the least. But it's fun to see how down to Earth he's remained over the years. His various encounters with stars big and small over the years adds to plenty of the entertainment value, but I was particularly interested in reading about the production of the things he was involved in: IVANHOE, MAVERICK, THE SAINT, THE PERSUADERS, and of course Bond too. People forget that Bond was only a part of Moore's life and he had a long and varied career even before he took over the role.
The book only becomes a chore to read in the last chapter or two, when the actor becomes a UNICEF ambassador and the narrative becomes almost propaganda for the charity, but then you can't fault his intentions as its for a good cause. This book is certainly as entertaining as the previous movie autobiography I read, Schwarzenegger's TOTAL RECALL.
Be warned: Moore is a fan of lowbrow humour, and the language in this book is salty, to say the least. But it's fun to see how down to Earth he's remained over the years. His various encounters with stars big and small over the years adds to plenty of the entertainment value, but I was particularly interested in reading about the production of the things he was involved in: IVANHOE, MAVERICK, THE SAINT, THE PERSUADERS, and of course Bond too. People forget that Bond was only a part of Moore's life and he had a long and varied career even before he took over the role.
The book only becomes a chore to read in the last chapter or two, when the actor becomes a UNICEF ambassador and the narrative becomes almost propaganda for the charity, but then you can't fault his intentions as its for a good cause. This book is certainly as entertaining as the previous movie autobiography I read, Schwarzenegger's TOTAL RECALL.
July 29, 2017
A wonderful biography by a wonderful human being
Like the vast majority of people who read this book, I first was aware of Sir Roger Moore through exposure to the James Bond films. Being a die hard fan of the films, I decided to read more about the actor who appeared as Bond more than any other actor. I'm glad I did because I feel that in a way I got to know Roger in a wonderful way reading his life story. Sadly at the time of this writing he passed away two months ago. The more I read this book the more keenly I have felt the loss of a wonderful man.
So what makes this book so great? Well for starters Roger had an amazing sense of humor that shines through. I laughed out loud several parts during the book as he described his various adventures. Also he is an expert storyteller throughout the book, and along with stories about the Bond films he also had numerous fascinating stories about his early days in show business (particularly his experiences in Hollywood in the 50's and 60's). Also of interest are his numerous stories of his service as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador. This book will help you better appreciate a wonderful man who was much more than simply a 007!
Like the vast majority of people who read this book, I first was aware of Sir Roger Moore through exposure to the James Bond films. Being a die hard fan of the films, I decided to read more about the actor who appeared as Bond more than any other actor. I'm glad I did because I feel that in a way I got to know Roger in a wonderful way reading his life story. Sadly at the time of this writing he passed away two months ago. The more I read this book the more keenly I have felt the loss of a wonderful man.
So what makes this book so great? Well for starters Roger had an amazing sense of humor that shines through. I laughed out loud several parts during the book as he described his various adventures. Also he is an expert storyteller throughout the book, and along with stories about the Bond films he also had numerous fascinating stories about his early days in show business (particularly his experiences in Hollywood in the 50's and 60's). Also of interest are his numerous stories of his service as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador. This book will help you better appreciate a wonderful man who was much more than simply a 007!
January 18, 2015
Dieser Mann ist einer der ganz wenigen Schauspieler, die auch noch interessante - und dabei amüsante - Autobiographien schreiben. Bisher habe ich "Bond on Bond" und eben dieses Buch gelesen... und beide Bücher gleichermaßen genossen. Im Grunde genommen präsentiert sich Moore in den Büchern so, wie es sich Fans von ihm sicherlich erhoffen: mit einer gewissen Selbstironie, aber dennoch im Zweifel mit dem gebührenden Ernst, warmherzig und eloquent. Schön finde ich, dass er seine Autobiographie nicht dafür nutzt, andere Menschen herabzuwürdigen (im Zweifel hält er sich - ganz Gentleman - zurück). Natürlich ist da auch viel Eigenwerbung bei, aber das gelingt Moore immer mit dem spätestens aus den Bond-Filmen ihm eigenen Augenzwinkern, so dass man ihm wirklich gar nichts übel nimmt.
Zum Ende hin wird das Buch ziemlich Unicef-lastig. Mich persönlich hat es nicht gestört, weil es meiner Meinung nach nur allzu deutlich macht, wie wichtig Moore dieses Arbeit ist - und dass es eben kein Eitelkeitsding ist.
Fazit: Eine witzige, interessante, warmherzige Autobiographie. Sehr lesenswert.
Zum Ende hin wird das Buch ziemlich Unicef-lastig. Mich persönlich hat es nicht gestört, weil es meiner Meinung nach nur allzu deutlich macht, wie wichtig Moore dieses Arbeit ist - und dass es eben kein Eitelkeitsding ist.
Fazit: Eine witzige, interessante, warmherzige Autobiographie. Sehr lesenswert.
July 29, 2015
A funny, charming, and surprisingly down to earth memoir by one of my favorite actors. Roger Moore tells of his happy childhood, his discovery of his love for acting ("Mum! Mum! I'm going to be Stewart Granger!"), and his long apprenticeship. He did not become an immediate star. It was many years of starring in repertory - derailed temporarily by a stint in national service - before breaking into TV and the movies. He kept his sense of humor all the while and managed to enjoy himself despite difficult shooting locations, difficult costars (including an unhappy elephant in "Shout at the Devil"), and a host of health problems.
The last time I enjoyed a memoir this much was John Cleese's So, Anyway..., which shares a modest, easygoing touch with "My Word is My Bond." I recommended both books to anyone with an interest in great British entertainers.
The last time I enjoyed a memoir this much was John Cleese's So, Anyway..., which shares a modest, easygoing touch with "My Word is My Bond." I recommended both books to anyone with an interest in great British entertainers.
September 7, 2011
My fascination with the show, The Saint, which stars Roger Moore (and is currently running on RTE) brought me to this book. Roger's acting ability is debatable (even he admits that). What I always enjoy about this type of book is the name dropping and the anecdotes. It is fascinating! It is really fun because he knows he is truly dashing and stylish yet he has his foibles--Alleluia!--he has always struggled with his weight. The best chapter for me, as far as content, was the final one in which Audrey Hepburn recruited Moore to be an ambassador for UNICEF. He goes into great depth about the countries he has visited and the poverty he has witnessed. These experiences have truly humbled him and driven him to use his fame for the good of others. He sincerely wishes a good standard of living for everyone. That was so great to read. (And, yes, you just have to LOVE the cheesy title!!)
February 25, 2013
A hilarious and touching look back at the life of Roger Moore, an actor possibly known best for his roles on The Saint on television and the third James Bond in the movies. This is no scandal filled memoir, although Moore is honest about his own rowdy moments.
My first real exposure to Roger Moore was as Simon Templar, the Saint, when the series was aired in the United States. I found him charming and enjoyable to watch. There always seemed to be a twinkle in his eye and a sly smile that invited you to be in on the joke. From his birth to his early days as a struggling actor and on to wonderful success as actor, director, and UNICEF ambassador, Sir Roger relates it all in his own unique style.
This is a marvelous book, one I highly recommend to anyone who ever watched and loved him in any of his many roles.
My first real exposure to Roger Moore was as Simon Templar, the Saint, when the series was aired in the United States. I found him charming and enjoyable to watch. There always seemed to be a twinkle in his eye and a sly smile that invited you to be in on the joke. From his birth to his early days as a struggling actor and on to wonderful success as actor, director, and UNICEF ambassador, Sir Roger relates it all in his own unique style.
This is a marvelous book, one I highly recommend to anyone who ever watched and loved him in any of his many roles.
October 24, 2015
Roger Moore is a likeable, charming and engaging host - the stuff about his early years, how he broke into the industry and of course playing Bond, it's all here though there perhaps isn't quite enough of it. I wanted to read more about his time as a struggling young actor. What his writing his best known for - his fishwife gossip about fellow actors - is present in abundance, and it is of course gold - who would know that Cary Grant was such a toilet humourist? Unfortunately the book does descend into preaching about his work with UNICEF - it's worthy, but not what I'm here to know about, and I ended up skim reading many of these bits.
August 2, 2011
A really good book. Very interesting, reading about this legend that is Roger Moore. I absolutely loved this book. He's a great actor, and a great author. His childish school-boy sense of humour doesn't mirror mine, so if he'd have pulled those stunts on me, i'd have hit him for it lol, but this book is a great read. The only boring thing about it for me, was when he went on about all the work he's done for UNICEF and where he's been raising money for them etc. That wasn't very interesting i'm sorry to say, but otherwise, a great read.
December 21, 2011
A witty, breezy, gossipy book that feels as if it were written while sitting in a large, leather chair, inside a swanky Mayfair gentleman's club. It's not the book for you if you're looking for in-depth info on the making of the Bond movies...but it IS a very pleasant, warm & delightful read, with some lovely details about growing up middle class in suburban London, pre-WW2. You won't regret reading it...but it does feel like going straight to the dessert course, and bypassing the main meal.
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