My word is my bond james bond

One of the most recognizable big-screen stars of the past half-century, Sir Roger Moore played the role of James Bond longer than any other actor. Beginning with the classic Live and Let Die, running through Moonraker and A View to a Kill, Moore brought his finely honed wit and wry charm to one of Hollywood’s most beloved and long-lasting characters. Still, James Bond was only one in a lifetime of roles stretching back to Hollywood’s studio era, and encompassing stardom in theater and television on both sides of the Atlantic. From The Saint to Maverick, Warner Brothers to MGM, Hollywood to London to extreme locations the world over, Roger Moore’s story is one of the last of the classic Hollywood lives as yet untold.

Until now. From the dying days of the studio system and the birth of television, to the quips of Noël Coward and David Niven, to the bedroom scenes and outtakes from the Bond movies, Moore has seen and heard it all. Nothing is left out—especially the naughty bits. The «special effects» by which James Bond unzipped a dress with a magnet; the spectacular risks in The Spy Who Loved Me’s opening scene; and Moore’s preparation for facing down villains (he would imagine they all have halitosis): the stories in My Word is My Bond are priceless.

Throughout his career, Moore hobnobbed with the glamorous and powerful, counting Elizabeth Taylor, Jane Seymour, and Cary Grant among his contemporaries and friends. Included are stories of a foul-mouthed Milton Berle, a surly Richard Burton, and a kindhearted Richard Kiel, infamous as Bond enemy Jaws.

As much as it is Moore’s own exceptional story, My Word is My Bond is a treasure trove of Hollywood history.

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5.0 out of 5 stars

Well-written for a Britain!


Reviewed in the United States on February 24, 2015


I enjoyed the book over all because Sir Roger seems to be a man whose head is not in the cloud or snobbish due to his celebrity.One complaint: We know he had his tonsils removed at an early age yet toward the end of the story he says he «loaned his tonsils» to multiple voice projects. I would have expected him to say » I loaned my voice, or my vocal cords.»For someone who seems to be an almost perfectionist I am curious how such a thing got through the proof reading/ editing process.All in all Roger Moore has always been one of my favorite actors starting with «The Saint».If you like humble celebrities you will enjoy this book.

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Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2009

Roger Moore will always be MY James Bond. He was the actor portraying 007 when I first saw Bond in the theater and I’ve always held out a special fondness for his portrayal even when others derided him. In fact my defense of Moore probably caused me to become even a bigger fan. On the other hand I am completely ignorant of his non-Bond films and TV series. The only one I can even remember seeing was his small part in Cannonball Run so I have to confess that I came into the book hoping for a focus on the Bond years.

My desire in reading this book was to learn more about Roger Moore the man after watching countless hours of Roger Moore the actor. From this standpoint I couldn’t help but be disappointed. The book is an extremely shallow look at Roger Moore which is I guess the way Mr. Moore wanted it since he is the author. For instance he had three divorces but never gets into any details. The only moment in the book where the author lets us peak beneath the surface is one short paragraph touching on his religious beliefs. Mostly the book is one long name drop as Roger Moore kind of Forrest Gump’s his way through life meeting a young Elvis, a preteen Jodie Foster and a brief crossing of paths with the pre-fame Beatles. Most of the name dropping he does are obscure British actors and those on the periphery of movie making in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s. He has also had interactions with a huge amount of stars from decades past. I would be lying if I said I found it fascinating.

The problem is that the book is an auto-biography that could have been written by someone else. Anyone could have related a chronology of his life. Mr. Moore does include a lot of anecdotes related to the famous (and sometimes not so famous) people he met throughout his life. Some stories are funny, some not so much. I just wanted to hear more about Roger Moore and less about other people.

It’s not that Roger Moore doesn’t give us details of his life for instance he lived through World War II including the German bombing of Britain. This is interesting but I can read other books about World War II. I guess what I was looking for was more his inner view of events rather than a rote transcription. Nothing in this book reduced my view of Roger Moore as my favorite Bond and I have great admiration for all he’s done for UNICEF (the last quarter of the book is almost entirely devoted to his work with UNICEF). I would imagine that it’s difficult to have three divorces unless you have some inner demons although the reader is never granted a behind the scenes look besides the fact that it’s clear he was looking for other women while still married.

In the end this is a decent book but nothing spectacular. If nothing else the reader gets to experience Roger Moore’s self deprecating wit and bawdy humor. I’ll rate it a mediocre three stars which as a fan pains me to do.

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Reviewed in the United States on December 11, 2008

My first Bond film experience was back in 1973 with the release of Live and Let Die; therefore, for me Roger Moore is Bond… James Bond.

We come from Cuba and I left the Island alone, still a child in 1968 when I traveled to the USA through Mexico. I arrived in the US in 1969 so by 1973 I spoke English but did not fully comprehend all the expressions of Shakespeare’s language. Coming from Cuba, I had seen action films from France; «Fantomas» where a criminal mastermind with a thousand faces survives during amazing adventures. But when I saw Roger Moore in action, I became hooked on the best series of movies of all time.

Still remember the wonder created by Bond, we sat spell bound by the speed of all transportation used by Bond, by the ease with which he escapes such peril, and by the fun of watching him in some of the sequences of Live & Let Die.

So, when I received the book from Amazon, I immersed into a world written by one of my favorite characters and I am enchanted to have lived through his expressive emotion all that his life has entailed, a life for the most part, dedicated to bring to us some of the best moments in film history.

We own The Saint Collection, all of the Bond films and now, after reading his insight on many of the films, we have expanded our collection thanks to his input on how these evolved. The book takes the reader through experiences while filming Maverick; it travels the Roger Moore days from Warner Brothers to MGM… from Brazil, to the Caribbean, to the USA and Canada… It shares adventures that take place from London to France and the rest of Europe and Asia.

The book is written with candor, revealing a personality behind our hero that is respectful of others while filled with a childish and boyish desire to play tricks, always in search of living life to its fullest and to have fun at doing what he seems to have been born to do.

We read about the great friendships, David Niven for example. We are given the gift of understanding the relationships that evolve during the filming of our favorite movies and we learn about the character of the man we know as The Saint and James Bond.

Some of the details provided by Roger Moore are funny, others are deliciously naughty, others will bring tears to your eyes and many will leave you in admiration of the man who takes on the cause of UNICEF to bring hope to the lives of millions of children around the world.

It seems that Roger Moore has traveled all over the world and has interfaced at all levels of society, from Royalty to the poorest people on Planet Earth.

We are going to read some of the stories on particular films and then watch these to understand the «behind the scene» tid bits of information shared by the author.

If you want to delve into film history, there is no better way, if you are a James Bond fan… this book will «shake and stir» your soul. Don’t miss it!

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Reviewed in the United States on September 4, 2022

I was always a fan of Roger Moore and this is a really pleasant book to read. I was not disappointed.

Reviewed in the United States on July 29, 2017

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!

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Reviewed in the United States on January 18, 2021

I read this because of how much I enjoyed «The 007 Diaries — The Filming of Live and Let Die.» Moore’s wit and charm carry the book, and though there was not as much study on the Bond films as I had hoped, I think part of that is Moore saying he was much more than just that role in those films. I read his two books back to back, starting this past December, reading a little bit each day, and I know that I’ll miss reading about him for a while going forward. I don’t usually read autobiographies, but I have to highly recommend this one.

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3.0 out of 5 stars

The jokes wear a little thin

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on December 28, 2020

This is very typical of the type of autobiography someone of Moore’s generation would write. It’s full of the sort of anecdotes that actors love to tell eachother and especially on chat shows. I have heard the Michael Caine being advised not to wear suede shoes so many times in chat shows and in biogs. But some of the stories were a little hard to understand. Moore brought his third wife Luisa to ‘Niv’s’ house and she had to wear a blonde wig in case Niv had slept with her!? Seriously? There were a few stories like this and a few sexist ones involving an actress being cast for having ‘big tits’ and getting harassed by the crew. Yes, different times but necessary to include in an autobiography?
In fact a lot of it was a bit like that. And as he seemed to have a fair run of unsuccessful films — he was very lucky to get Bond. And he was good at it — if you liked his jovial approach. The book is full of his endless ‘japes’ and pranks on set and of course his encounters with his celebrity friends. It’s not detailed in much else so I definitely don’t feel I know him any better for having read this.

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3.0 out of 5 stars

WHAT YOU SAW ON THE SCREEN WAS THE REALITY OF THE MAN

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 1, 2021

I enjoyed this and the book passes my Beach Read Test, earning three and a half stars. The quality of the writing is OK and the simple, chronological ordering of the story appropriate. In sum, the book has the air of an amusing monologue by someone you like. But there are some gaps — with the writer being surprisingly tight-lipped about the demise of some of his marriages. Offsetting that limitation, the book sheds constant light on Moore’s modesty: he never claims to the be the world’s best actor and gives ample credit to luck. I can’t resist making a comparison between this and Niven’s ‘The Moon’s a Balloon’. The latter is the better written of the two but it takes Niven’s prompt return to the colours, in September 1939, and the traumatic effect of the death of his first wife, to make Niven likeable, whereas Moore remains likeable throughout — especially when acting as a UNICEF ambassador. I’d happily buy another of Moore’s books but, until then, I’ll try and catch up on some re-runs of ‘The Saint’.
P.S. Pub Quiz question: which actress served James Bond (Brosnan) his drink on the BA flight from Cuba in ‘Die Another Day’?

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4.0 out of 5 stars

Sarfe London boy made good ( with hero looks)

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on September 18, 2019

it’s often said that you need a fair bit of luck in the acting world but my oh my did Roger get a fair sprinkling of pixie dust pretty much from the get go, e.g loving family no great horror s of war while national service was often a tedious tour of duty or in Michael caines experience life threatening while in nth Korea …Roger by contrast gets drafted in as a private, as per then gets a commission( although not in a «real» infantry regiment, but never mind troops still need transporting) almost as if one is going spare… gets bored of duty in W.Germany and bags a place into the army’s touring theatre group instead and so it goes on until by my estimates after demob at 20? tagging along with some ex army mates he heads to a casting agency. He gets ever increasing bit parts ..bloke back left holding spear etc until by 26 he was playing ( actually opposite) Elizabeth Taylor in a feature film!?!
Not long after that he married his 2nd wife who bought themselves an apartment in Hollywood from which he grew a network started already from the london theatre world and on it goes, it’s a fascinating account and a snap shot of the golden age of Hollywood as well, as the development of British 60s light drama and onto his mainstay as 007. I found some of the anecdotes to be quite cheesy at times, name dropping is rampant of course in that business and I guess it’s to be expected. I felt he could be a bit of a «player» and wondered if his children had additional benefits as in being «God fathered» off to some movie mogul/ worthy /royal family member etc. I think his saving grace from such a frothy lifestyle came through Audrey Hepburn and his involvement in UN relief work towards the end of his career where the shashayyin lifestyle sombre s up drastically.
All in all , a good read ,recommended👍

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4.0 out of 5 stars

pretty good yarns

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 28, 2020

I’d recommend this book . I thought it was entertaining and funny. He had a full life in acting and he had a self deprecating way about him that asks the reader if you were in his position would you not have settled for his lifestyle also taking full advantage of the perks the money options and all the entertainment he obviously enjoyed while making the most of his younger good looks and limited acting skills. I thought he came over as a sympathetic character.

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5.0 out of 5 stars

Most amusing Mr Moore

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on April 12, 2021

Ok I did like him and am surprised it took so long to pick up his book, — well worth the read though an interesting trip through life through another’s experiences, quite a remarkable life and experiences they were too and particularly amusing when put into context of how he was perceived at the time. Good man, interesting life and well worthwhile read

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Profile Image for W.

1,185 reviews4 followers

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.

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Profile Image for Mark.

1,308 reviews56 followers

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.)

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Profile Image for Nigeyb.

1,202 reviews262 followers

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


Profile Image for Ashok Banker.

Author 100 books625 followers

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.


Profile Image for Jack Lugo.

51 reviews3 followers

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.

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Profile Image for Orinoco Womble (tidy bag and all).

1,958 reviews181 followers

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.

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Profile Image for Rebecca M..

53 reviews51 followers

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.


Profile Image for Ming Wei.

Author 13 books264 followers

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.

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Profile Image for Alice.

Author 35 books41 followers

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.

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Profile Image for Nikki in Niagara.

3,834 reviews121 followers

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.


Profile Image for Elisha Condie.

566 reviews23 followers

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.


Profile Image for Lee Goldberg.

Author 138 books1,567 followers

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.


Profile Image for Nancy.

375 reviews

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.


Profile Image for Jaime.

1,454 reviews2 followers

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.

    arts-entertainment bios-memoirs

Profile Image for Gayle Noble.

1,524 reviews26 followers

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.

*Read via Kindle Unlimited*

    autobiography-biography-memoir non-fiction

1,235 reviews28 followers

August 4, 2020

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 British 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.


Profile Image for Riju Ganguly.

Author 12 books1,370 followers

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.


Profile Image for Deity World.

789 reviews3 followers

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

    autobiography

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.


Profile Image for Graham.

1,172 reviews67 followers

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.

    biography-inc-auto cinema-and-tv non-fiction

Profile Image for Robert Lloyd.

254 reviews

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!


Profile Image for Nicola.

253 reviews22 followers

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.


Profile Image for Diane.

347 reviews73 followers

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.

    entertainment

Profile Image for Elizabeth.

2,004 reviews52 followers

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!!)


Profile Image for Lizabeth Tucker.

855 reviews12 followers

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.

    biography film television

Profile Image for Mike.

185 reviews2 followers

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.


Profile Image for Lisa Bennett.

229 reviews3 followers

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.

    autobiography

Profile Image for Daniel Kukwa.

3,955 reviews86 followers

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.

    non-fiction

March 21, 2013

Roger Moore’s autobiography is a nice read. It’s not a tell all. Moore has showbiz anecdotes and does name drop on the people he’s met and worked with throughout his career. It could easily have been the story of struggling British actor makes good with «The Saint», «The Persuaders» and finally his role as one of the James Bonds, but what really makes this a standout read is how he was recruited to work with UNICEF by Audrey Hepburn and became their Goodwill Ambassador and traveled all over the world for the benefit of children everywhere.


Profile Image for Alan Toner.

Author 52 books26 followers

May 26, 2017

After hearing of the very sad death of Sir Roger Moore, aged 89, yesterday, I thought I’d just say a few words about his biography, My Word Is My Bond, which I read some time ago.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is, in fact, one of the best autobiographies I have ever read. I love all the little showbiz anecdotes Roger regales us with, plus of course his descriptions of his early life. his first acting parts etc. etc.

I would highly recommend this book to any Roger Moore fan.

RIP, Sir Roger. You were a true legend.

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«Here’s the best sound in creation»
«On the strength word is bond» (Repeat 4x)

[Diamond]
Check it, word is bond, I’m out for number one
Hit tricks with sticks and carry on like I’m Selling Junk
Coming straight from New York, where bitch niggas talk
And end up sketch outlined in chalk
Maintain and play games with the bitches
Stay away from witches and beat down the snitches
In a bind I can go for mine
Don’t run with no niggas that smile all the time
I keep it real and keep the steel on my hip
In case a jealous envious snake wants to flip
And take a trip, the melodrama you can skip
Hit a twenty-dollar stick and I still won’t slip
Never had a fat lip, don’t ego trip
If there’s a line at the flicks, then I just skip
It’s like this and a, it’s like that and a
I’m more determined than a nigga on cracks and a
Uh, so keep it rolling, it’s the mic I’m controlling
With the House of Pain, maintain like a shit stain
Like water on your brain, the beat is redundant
I got em stocked in abundance
I got the diction and conviction
When the session is over, I take the tapes like Nixon
And get away like Steve McQueen
Pull a hat trick, and that’s word to St. Patrick
Yeah, so get on down to the Double D sound
Next time on the rebound, cause ya

«Here’s the best sound in creation»
«On the strength word is bond» (Repeat 4x)

[Everlast]
My word is bond like James is to 007
Let Doug E Fresh take you all the way to heaven
Cause I’m a walk through the depths of hell
And reminice on careers of MC’s that fell
Then spark an L, while you’re standing on the corner
While your thumb’s up your ass like your name was Jack Horner
I’m running up on ya, make sure you hide
Cause I lost my mind the last time I fried
The L 25 keeps the party live
Even though I’m hell-bent and still heaven sent
Like the Diamond D, and the Diggin in the Crates
Are psychotic and neurotic like Norman Bates
Making fat dub plates on the reg
Play me too close, kid, I’ll bust that egg
You know I’m not kidding, I never told a fib
I did a four-month bid inside my crib
My weapons are concealed, they’re stainless steel
And you’d better start running if they get revealed
Cause caps get peeled, and bodies get caught like
Cops are on the take and judges get bought
It’s like this and a, it’s like that and a
I go deep undercover like Dan Tanna
Put on a bandana, or a skully
Start acting hard and get smokes like a wooly, when ya

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