2009 NEWS ARCHIVE
December 18
"Christopher Lee, Gentleman des Grauens". Südwestrundfunk (SWR) has produced a new 65-minute documentary dedicated to the life and career of Christopher Lee, who was knighted in the Queen's Birthday Honours earlier this year. The film was directed by Oliver Schwehm and features a host of guests - family, friends and colleagues, including Sir Roger Moore. It will be broadcast in Germany on Jan 3, 2010 on ARTE (22.20-23.25). Moore and Lee have been friends since after the war. They have also worked together a couple of times. In the early days of their careers, the the two were playing bit parts in a musical comedy "Trottie True". A decade later they met on the set of "Ivanhoe", where Lee played the German Knight in one of the episodes. Their most famous encounter was, however, in a 1974 James Bond adventure "The Man with the Golden Gun" were Lee appeared as the villainous Francisco Scaramanga.
December 6
Deborah & Christian Moore - latest projects. A while ago Sir Roger Moore mentioned he would love to play in "Midsomer Murders". It has yet to happen, but in the meantime Sir Roger's daughter Deborah appeared in one of the latest episodes of this popular crime series. She played Mel in "The Great and the Good", which premiered earlier this year. The film was directed by Richard Holthouse and will be probably available on DVD next year. Recently Deborah has also taken part in the recording of voice-overs for a video game called "Dragon Age: Origins" which also features performances from Tim Curry, Steve Valentine and Kate Mulgrew. Also Christian Moore has been busy lately photographing new documentary by Amy Grappell called "Quadrangle" about two 'conventional' couples that swapped partners and lived in a group marriage in the early 70s, hoping to pioneer an alternative to divorce and the way people would live in the future. Christian previously worked with Grappell on the acclaimed documentary "Light from the East" (2005). For more information about Deborah's and Christian's current film activities click here.
December 3
Know Your Pulse. WENN reports: Bond star Sir Roger Moore wants his collapse from an irregular heartbeat to serve as a warning to fans who may be suffering from the same condition. The 007 actor was rushed to hospital after falling over onstage during a performance of Kenneth Branagh's Broadway show "The Play What I Wrote" in 2003. He later found out he suffers from arrhythmia - and he's urging fans to check their heartbeats regularly to detect cardiac problems early on. He says, "People should know their pulse as they would their weight. If I had been checking my pulse I would have realised my heartbeat was slow and sought help. You can check your pulse at any time but last thing at night after a period of rest is a good time. I was lucky. My collapse was a warning. Others may not be so fortunate. Taking your pulse only takes 30 seconds."
November 25
A Star For Christmas. Sir Roger Moore is set to take part in a star-studded Christmas "A Star For Christmas" concert organized by Age Concern and Help the Aged - two of Britian's major organzation's for the elderly. Taking place at 6.30pm at St Paul's Church, Knightsbridge, London on Monday 7th December, the concert features a host of star performances and music from the Sylvia Young Theatre School, as well as the opportunity for guests to mingle with celebrities afterwards at a wine and mince pie reception. Sir Roger Moore commented: "I am delighted to be involved with the Age Concern and Help the Aged 'A Star for Christmas' concert. I always look forward to spending time in London and the beautiful setting of St Paul's Church in Knightsbridge will certainly make the evening one to remember. Far too often older people are forgotten about in our society, especially over the festive season. It is vital that we remember those older people who are suffering from isolation and loneliness at this time of year - particularly when we're all rushing about and looking forward to spending time with friends and loved ones. I can't wait for the Age Concern and Help the Aged 'A Star for Christmas' concert, and it's wonderful that the money raised will give older people the opportunity to meet with friends and get involved in social activities, helping them make the most of the festive season." Ticket information at Help the Aged official website.
November 23
Bond screenings in Januray. Six classic James Bond films featuring Sean Connery and Roger Moore will be featured on the silver screen this upcoming January at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood. On Sunday Jan 3, 2010 "Moonraker" (1979) and "For Your Eyes Only" (1981) will be screened starting at 7.30 pm. General admission is $10.00 unless otherwise noted, $7.00 for Cinematheque members and $8.00 for seniors and students w/valid ID. The Egyptian Theatre is located at 6712 Hollywood Boulevard, between Las Palmas and McCadden, just east of Highland Avenue in Hollywood. To purchase tickets (via Fandango) or for inquiries, visit the official website or phone 323-461-2020. Source: CommanderBond.net
November 21
PETA Person of the Year. On the heels of its recent Selfridges victory, PETA UK has named Sir Roger Moore 2009's Person of the Year. Moore said: "I am deeply touched and thrilled to be awarded the PETA UK person of the year. When I first saw their video footage on foie gras production three years ago, I felt compelled to do something to help put a stop to this cruel delicacy. I have since become a passionate campaigner against foie gras, and am most humbled that my passion has helped make a positive difference in the lives of these animals." The celebrated actor's tireless and successful efforts against foie gras began three years ago when Moore narrated a video about its production that has attracted more than 300,000 viewers. Since then, Moore has written to every member of the House of Commons asking them to help end foie gras sales in the UK and penned many pieces for national publications in his unending attempt to spread the word against the deadly force-feeding of ducks and geese. For his inspiring accomplishments, Moore will be honored with a plaque and a copy of PETA President Ingrid E. Newkirk's "One Can Make a Difference". Source: The PETA Files
October 28
A melancholy experience. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian reflects his feelings about the recent Post Office TV ad featuring Sir Roger Moore. "Sir Roger is a terrifically good sport about sending up his image in the promo. He always has been. Yet it is also desperately, heartwrenchingly sad." - writes Bradshaw, clearly a Roger Moore fan. You can read entire article here. It also features the ad itself.
October 24
The James Bond Omnibus. A new book is reopening the files on some of James Bond's most famous adventures. The James Bond Omnibus includes stories which appeared in daily newspaper comic strips in the late 50s and early 60s, before the film adaptations were made. Released by Titan Books on September 25, priced £14.99, the omnibus collects for the first time eleven of Bond's most thrilling missions, adapted from Ian Fleming's novels. The first bumper volume of its kind from Titan Books, Volume 001 presents "Casino Royale", "Live and Let Die", "Moonraker", "Diamonds are Forever", "From Russia With Love", "Dr No", "Goldfinger", "Risico", "From a View to a Kill", "For Your Eyes Only" and "Thunderball". With an introduction by former Bond actor Sir Roger Moore, this paperback features 304 pages of action and the occasional vodka martini, shaken not stirred.
October 14
Happy Birthday, Sir Roger! Today Sir Roger Moore turns 82. Best wishes and congratulations from the webteam! As usually the previous year has been a very busy one for Sir Roger. After the release of the long awaited memoirs he has been heavily involved in promotional work for the book. On the acting front he has joined two major animated feature films in which he will play voice-roles. He has also filmed the Associated Television special in Kenya, which is set to draw more attention to this African country. As Moore's main interest these days is of course his engagement as a UNICEF special representative, he has been also concentrated on his work for the UN. In June he spoke at the publication of a new UNICEF report on the sexual abuse of children, which is one of the most important issues for the organization. He was also involved in drawing attention to a small, AIDS-devastated southern African country, Swaziland. Apart from this Moore also supported few other social campaigns, such as PETA, Know Your Pulse and the ".eco" top level domain.
October 3
Robert S. Baker (1916-2009). Robert S. Baker, a close friend and a long time business partner of Sir Roger Moore died at age of 93 on September 30. Baker, whose career spanned sixty years, was primarily known as the producer of "The Saint" TV series starring Moore. He was one of the last old school film makers who could handle all the aspects of filmmaking. At various points of his career he was a producer, a writer, a cinematographer and a director. Together with his partner, Monty Berman, they were the main competetion to Hammer Films up to 1959. In 1962 they launched "The Saint" series which soon became a worldwide success. That's when Baker and Moore became friends and also buisness partners after setting up Tribune Productions. After the production of "The Saint" series had come to an end Baker and Moore produced a theatrical action movie "Crossplot". Then they went on to conceive what was to become "The Persuaders!", one of the most popular TV series of the time in Europe. In the 1970s Baker returned to the character of Simon Templar and produced new TV series for ITC starring Ian Ogilvy as the Saint. To read a tribute to Robert Baker go to LeslieCharteris.com. Baker's complete filmography can be found at IMDb.com.
October 2
Sir Roger Moore in the Post Office TV ad. The Post Office is launching its biggest marketing campaign to date for its savings products, and will for the first time use television to promote its savings options in an ad fronted by Sir Roger Moore. It is 18 months since the Post Office has been on TV screens, when it promoted a number of products including car insurance, life cover and home phone and broadband services. Moore, famously known for his role as James Bond, is the latest celebrity to feature in a Post Office campaign. Other recently featured stars include boy band Westlife and recently deceased actress Wendy Richards. Post Office financial and travel services marketing director Doug Strachan says the aim of the new campaign is to demonstrate its confidence and stature in the financial services market and boost awareness of its range of savings offers. The campaign, created by Mother, will launch this weekend and comprise of TV, radio, outdoor, online direct mail and in-branch communications. Radio creative will feature the line "We know you work hard for your savings. We work hard for your savings too". The campaign will target the ABC1, 55-plus market. Strachan says it chose Moore to star in its campaign because of his "suave and sophisticated" reputation. "We wanted someone to represent financial services as being sophisticated and respected and we thought he was a good fit," he says. The latest marketing activity comes ahead of a major DRTV push due to launch this year for its insurance products.
September 30
The J Craft reception in Monaco. On Sep 26, Sir Roger Moore was guest of honour at the champagne reception of the new J Craft at the Monaco Yacht Show. The show is world famous for its incredible displays from the international luxury yachting sector. At this year's reception esteemed Swedish boat design and manufacturing company J Craft Boats unveiled its new J Craft Torpedo luxury yacht tender. Sir Roger Moore said, "I can certainly see James Bond arriving in a boat like this at an exclusive party somewhere on the Riviera and I think any of my seven Bond Girls would have loved it too!". Source: Le Podcast Journal
September 18
Sir Roger Moore takes foie gras battle to Selfridges. Foie gras is produced by the force feeding of ducks and geese and although widely condemned it's also widely consumed. Not only in it's heartland of France but in many other countries too. The campaign to stop its sale is gathering growing support not least from some celebrities. This week Sir Roger Moore, who has been involved in the campaign for the last few years, renewed an attack on one of the countries most prestigious stores for stocking the product. His long running campaign began with a graphic video depicting the treatment of ducks and geese who are being force fed. In London this week it was clear that his condemnation of how the food is produced is more bitter than ever. Moore explained "every three or four hours they come with this big pipe and they force feed the duck or the goose and they shove this thing, they break the beaks, they pierce the collar, the neck of the bird and this is corn mash they feed so that the liver swells and it's called foie gras which means fatty liver which is a diseased liver which strikes me that the idea of eating something that is diseased is absolutely ridiculous but when you think of the way that it's produced – it's vile.” Full article. Source: MI6.co.uk
September 12
Dougray Scott close to becoming the new Saint. According to Broadcast.co.uk, Scottish actor Dougray Scott is lined up to play Simon Templar in the upcoming "Saint" series. The actor is in ongoing negotiations over the role but is thought to be close to an agreement. The series will be remade by Vancouver-based indie production company, Brightlight Pictures. Broadcast.co.uk also confirmed that the shooting of the pilot episode is set for Autumn. Full article. Source: Ian Dickerson
September 5
Sir Roger Moore at Julian Rachlin & Friends Festival. Croatian Times reports that Sir Roger Moore is set to undergo elbow surgery soon. The actor confirmed that to the daily Slobodna Dalmacija upon arrival in Dubrovnik on Thursday. Moore is to narrate the performance of Aleksey Igudesman's "Violins of the World" on September 6 as part of the Julian Rachlin & Friends festival. "I definitely won't be able to play the piano at the concert", Moore joked at the airport with his left arm in a sling. Moore has regularly spent his holidays in Dubrovnik in recent years. He has also been involved with the festival for the last couple of years.
August 30
IanOgilvy.com. Devotees of Leslie Charteris remember well "The Return of the Saint", a 70s TV series that brought back to the small screen the famous character of Simon Templar after a 10-year hiatus since Roger Moore's farewell to the role. The show starred Ian Ogilvy, a popular English actor, primarly known for his work for television but also having a substantial stage and film experience. In recent years, apart from work as an actor, Ogilvy has been a successful author of a number of teen novels in the Measle series. For more information about the former Saint go to IanOgilvy.com. Also stay tuned for Ogilvy's latest splendid TV appearance in "The Do It with Mirrors", from the ITV's Marple series starring Julia MacKenzie.
August 18
"The Spy Who Loved Me" screening. The Screen at Winchester theatre will be marking Sir Roger Moore's birthday in October with a screening of his classic 1977 James Bond film, "The Spy Who Loved Me", directed by Lewis Gilbert and co-starring Barbara Bach. 007 fans will be able to catch all the action on the big screen on Wednesday, 14 October at 20:30. Ticket prices are £8.00 for standard members and £6.50 for students, seniors and children 14 and under. Reservations can be made online here or by phoning 0870 066 4777. Screen at Winchester is located on Southgate Street, Winchester SO23 9EG. For additional details on this upcoming James Bond screening, visit the official website. Source: CommanderBond.net
August 15
Roger Moore classics on DVD. Warner Bros. has just released two Roger Moore films from the actor's Hollywood-era. The first of the movies, MGM's musical biography of Marjorie Lawrence, the Australian-born opera singer who suffered and overcame polio, stars Eleanor Parker and Glenn Ford. 27-year-old Moore is featured here in his second major movie role as Marjorie Lawrence's brother. In the second film, a 1960 Warner Bros. melodrama "The Sins of Rachel Cade", Moore secured a bigger part of a RAF pilot who falls in love with a young nurse in Belgian Congo played by Angie Dickinson. The film also stars Peter Finch. Both films are now available on Amazon with additional note that these are actually products manufactured on demand using DVD-R recordable media. Amazon.com's standard return policy will however apply. These discs are expected to play back in DVD Video "play only" devices, and may not play in other DVD devices, including recorders and PC drives.
August 14
Roger Moore Bond season on BBC America. In September, BBC America, a US branch of BBC, will screen four James Bond pictures starring Sir Roger Moore as 007. The programme features: "The Man with the Golden Gun" (1974) on Sep 5, "The Spy Who Loved Me" (1977) on Sep 6, "Moonraker" (1979) on Sep 13, and "For Your Eyes Only" (1981) on Sep 20. Source: MI6.co.uk
August 7
The new "Saint" series update. According to Sir Roger Moore (see latest Q&A at Roger-Moore.com), the new "Saint" series will start shooting this September in Toronto. Moore also wrote he will have a small part in the series. More news about the series can be also found at IMDb.com. The pilot episode is to be directed by T.J. Scott who also helped to write the screenplay with William J. MacDonald and Jorge Zamacona. The show is produced by Geoffrey Moore for Brightlight Pictures,
Insomnia Media Group and Instinctive Film. Production-wise the series is based in USA and it will premiere there hopefully later this year. James Purefoy and Barry Levinson are no more part of the project. As for the moment no replacement for Purefoy has been announced.
July 30
Sir Roger Moore pays tribute to Dorothy Squires. Sir Roger Moore pays posthumous tribute to his late second wife, fiery Welsh singing star Dorothy Squires, 40 years after the acrimonious ending of their 16-year marriage. The actor is forking out L300 for a blue Heritage plaque to be fixed to the council house in Dafen, Carmarthenshire, where she lived as a child. The always colourful Dot was born in a horse-drawn caravan at Pontyberem, eight miles away. Source: Mail Online.
July 23
Private signing with Sir Roger Moore this September. Bondstars.com will be holding a limited private signing with Sir Roger Moore this upcoming September. The signing by the former James Bond star will take place on September 13 and all orders must be received by 10:00am (GMT) on September 7 (unfortunately, Bondstars.com will not be able to accept own items to be signed on this occasion). As there is limited time with Sir Roger, it is asked if those participating would keep dedications short and simple e.g. "To Chris, Best Wishes, Roger Moore" etc. Bondstars.com have the right to edit dedications if necessary. Sir Roger Moore will only sign his name, he will not sign character names such as "The Saint" or "007". The cost per signed item is £40.00 plus a £3.00 handling fee. This price includes shipping worldwide. Items will be shipped week beginning September 21. For full details, including purchasing a still to be signed by Sir Roger, visit Bondstars.com. Source: CommanderBond.net.
June 28
Julian Rachlin & Friends in Pernegg - a report. For three days in March, Pernegg in Lower Austria lived to the rhythm of Julian Rachlin's violin and his virtuoso friends: Itamar Golan, Boris Andrianov, Aleksey Igudesman, Janine Jansen and young Alexandra Soumm. The festival, now in its fourth edition, once again welcomed Sir Roger Moore and his close friend Julian Rachlin. The two men forged a solid friendship a few years ago in Monaco and met at festivals around the world where Sir Roger displays his exceptional skill as a narrator. Marie-France Vienne of Roger-Moore.com has written a thorough report from her visit in Pernegg and has kindly agreed to share it with our website. You can read it here.
June 20
Know Your Pulse. As part of Arrhythmia Awareness Week (8-14 June 2009) the general public was encouraged to 'Know Your Pulse' by Sir Roger Moore. A new online video available at www.knowyourpulse.org. brings the quintessential Bond back to screens. Having a heart rhythm problem himself, Sir Roger is taking the opportunity to encourage the public to 'Know Your Pulse' as an important diagnostic of a potentially fatal heart rhythm. Sir Roger Moore said: "It is so important to Know Your Pulse as it can indicate a potential heart rhythm disorder. Early identification of cardiac arrhythmias can not only help prevent serious complications from developing, but may save your life." Arrhythmia Awareness Week was part of a global campaign. The week saw 250 events worldwide helping to promote effective diagnosis, treatment, and improve quality of life for individuals affected by cardiac arrhythmias.
June 10
Sir Roger Moore in hospital treatment. Former James Bond star Sir Roger Moore has been rushed to hospital after he was crippled with agonising back pains during an autograph session. The former 007 was whisked away in his chauffeur-driven Maserati in the middle of signing copies of his autobiography "My Word Is My Bond" in Schlossgasthof Rosenburg, Austria. Sir Roger, 81, was released after treatment to his lower back by spine specialist Dr Igor Rakatin at the Waldviertel Horn hospital. Source: Croatian Times
June 6
Premieres pushed to 2010. According to IMDb.com, the two upcoming animated feature films in which Sir Roger Moore is playing voice roles - "Gnomes and Trolls: The Forest Trial" and "Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore", are set to premiere only next year as opposed to the previous date set for November 2009. The first of the films, a Swedish production, will premiere on Feb 5, 2010 in Sweden and is also set to be screened at the Berlin International Film Festival next year. The other film, a Warner Bros. production, will be out in the US on July 30, 2010. For more details about both films go to the Upcoming projects section.
June 3
Moore urges global action against child exploitation. Former James Bond star Roger Moore lashed out on Tuesday against the sexual exploitation of children, urging those who abuse minors to be pursued across national borders. Speaking at the publication of a new UNICEF report on the sexual abuse of children, Moore said: "Childhood is being destroyed by sexual abuse, violence and neglect. We must stop it. If we do nothing, our silence would mean acceptance." The 81-year-old British actor, a longtime UNICEF ambassador, added: "I can hardly imagine a more shameful violation of the rights of children as the deliberate exploitation of their bodies by unscrupulous adults to serve their sexual appetite. They destroy the childhood of their victims and do harm to them that lasts throughout their lives."He called for better cooperation between police forces, public prosecutors and the business sector. "Perpetrators must be followed across borders," he urged.
The UNICEF report quoted data from a 2006 World Health Organization (WHO) document estimating that as many as 150 million girls and 73 million boys under 18 are "every year forced into sex". Source: Berlin (AFP)
June 2
"One Wild Oat" on DVD. US distributing company Wham! released in May for the first time on DVD a 1951 Coronet comedy "One Wild Oat" directed by Charles Saunders and starring Robertson Hare, Vera Pearce and Stanley Holloway among others. The bit parts in the film were played by the likes of Audrey Hepburn, James Fox and Sir Roger Moore, although the latter isn't even mentioned in the credits. The DVD is region free and its price is estimated $23. Sir Roger Moore recalls the film shortly in his book, mentioning that it's when he found in Audrey Hepburn a friend and a colleague. It's the only time the two appeared together in one picture.
May 31
Sir Roger Moore at the BFI tribute to Cubby Broccoli. On May 28, former James Bond actor took part in a conversation with David Walliams as part of a celebration of the career of Bond producer Cubby Broccoli at the BFI, the British Film Institute. "Still tall and elegant at 81, Moore shrugged off a series of technical hitches to regale the audience with a string of anecdotes from the Bond years" - reports Reuters in a very interesting and thorough article available here.
May 22
60 seconds with Sir Roger Moore. On May 20, a short Q&A interview with Sir Roger Moore was published in Metro.co.uk as part of the "Fame - 60 seconds" features. Moore talks openly about aging, today's celebrity obsession, working for UNICEF and Daniel Craig among other things. Read entire interview.
You can now also watch a short clip from Moore's recent visit to Lithuania.
May 3
Germany & other travels. Continuing his world-wide publicity tour for My Word Is My Bond, Sir Roger Moore will be arriving in Germany in early June. Though details are not yet confirmed, he will visit Hamburg, Berlin and Cologne. You can now also order Sir Roger's memoirs in paperback format. It is published by Michael O'Mara Books and retails for £8.99, but if you buy now from Amazon.co.uk, you can pick it up for the bargain price of £4.50.
UNICEF travels from Sir Roger Moore also include Finland, Sweden and Lithuania in near future. In June he will travel to Pernegg, Austria, with Julian Rachlin for a Chamber Music Festival raising funds for UNICEF.
Source: Gareth Owen & Marie-France Vienne
April 24
Upcoming broadcasts & events. Sir Roger's recording of My Word Is My Bond begins today at 9.15pm on BBC Radio 2, and will last over the next six weeks. Next Tuesday (28th April) Sir Roger will be the subject of Hollywood Charmers at 11.30pm on Radio 2 - and recorded a new interview especially for the show. There is also a 2 page interview with him in the new issue of Radio Times, for UK based readers.
It has just been confirmed that, following his Helsinki trip in early May, Sir Roger will arrive in Stockholm to promote My Word Is My Bond on May 6th. At 4pm that day he will be signing at NK Bookshop, for an hour. On Thursday 7th, he will be signing at Akademibokhandeln City between 5pm and 6pm. And at 7pm on Friday 8th, he will be interviewed as part of the International Authors Scene, by Gunnar Bohlin, journalist, at the Cultural House Of Sweden. After the interview there will be a short book signing session. Sir Roger will only be signing copies of his book - and not any other items. Source: Gareth Owen
April 19
Guy Hamilton in Aberdeen. Guy Hamilton, who directed four Bond movies during his 40-year career, will appear in the city as part of the University of Aberdeen's Director's Cut series on April 28. The public talk will take place at 6pm in King's College Centre, when Hamilton will be interviewed by BBC Movie Café presenter, Janice Forsyth. Guy Hamilton, who worked for Naval Intelligence during the war and made numerous stops in Aberdeen while conducting clandestine missions to Norway, began life in the movie industry as an Assistant Director on classic films such as The Third Man (1949), starring Orson Welles, and The African Queen (1951), featuring Katherine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart. But it was with the Bond films he made his name, directing classics such as Diamonds are Forever (1971), Live and Let Die (1973) and The Man with the Golden Gun (1974). The Guy Hamilton Director's Cut event is co-hosted by Scottish Screen. Visit www.abdn.ac.uk/directorscut to book your place.
In addition, Sir Roger Moore was recently interviewed for The Daily Mail ("I'm a happy hypocondriac"). Click here to read the interview.
April 6
Hollywood Charmers. Tomorrow, on March 7, the first in a series called Hollywood Charmers is broadcast on BBC Radio 2, and focuses on David Niven. Sir Roger Moore will be the subject of a later edition in the series. Information on BBC Radio 2. Source: Gareth Owen
March 31
Moore in Helsinki. Sir Roger Moore is scheduled to visit Helsinki in early May. He will appear at a panel discussion to be held before the screening of the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only. The event, on May 3rd at 8:00 PM, was originally to have taken place at the Orion cinema, but it has been moved to the Bristol. Tickets, costing EUR 8 apiece, went on sale on the website of the National Audiovisual Archive, and were quickly sold out. Organisers say that some tickets may become available if there are cancellations. Source: Marie-France Vienne
March 18
Moore gives support to Waiting in Rhyme. A star-studded film from a Black Country director is set to raise thousands of pounds for a cancer charity. Kevin Powis' latest offering Waiting in Rhyme - starring TV funnyman Les Dennis and former Corrie stars Sally Lindsay and Geoffrey Hughes - was given its public launch and first screening in Birmingham on January 22, 2009. Set in a doctor's waiting room and told entirely in rhyme, all proceeds from the 16-minute flick will go to Macmillan Cancer Support. Powis' previous film Expresso, which starred Sir Norman Wisdom, also raised cash for the charity and sold more than 3,000 copies. Filmed on location near Bromsgrove last October, Waiting in Rhyme is centred around seven poems which cover several difficult issues including cancer, Alzheimer's disease and teenage pregnancy. The film has also won support from Dame Judi Dench and Sir Roger Moore - and Powis revealed the former Bond star could even appear in his next project. He said: "In the early stages of Waiting in Rhyme there was a suggestion he could be involved but it never came to fruition. We are in contact with his PA, nothing is certain but fingers crossed - it would be great to work with him." The film costs £5 and is available to buy from the website www.poetryfilm.com or from Macmillan on 0121 7426393. Source: Stourbridge News
March 16
Moore backs ".eco". A new internet domain name is promising to revolutionise the way companies and individuals market themselves and operate on the Web. The ".eco" top level domain, which has been submitted to join the likes of ".com", is aimed at any "green" person or outfit wanting to stress their eco-friendly credentials. Mexico City-based Dot Eco Ltd is hoping its three-letter suffix will follow the same path as ".tel" and ".gov" and get the all-clear from ICAAN. If the firm wins the internet coordinator's approval, environmentally-friendly firms could switch to ".eco" to flex their green muscles, and help save the planet. Dot Eco reportedly said registration fees of £36 for a 1-year subscription would reportedly be used "to fund scientific initiatives and research in climate change". Initial backers of the plan to create a "green" internet space include Sir Roger Moore, of James Bond and UNICEF, and Al Gore, the former US vice-president and climate change campaigne Source: MI6.co.uk
March 15
Broccoli centenary at BFI Southbank update. Sir Roger Moore has agreed to participate in the two-month long celebration of Cubby Broccoli at London's BFI Southbank (formerly the NFT) by taking part in a 'Screen Talk' following a running of The Spy Who Loved Me in May. He will be one of many Bond guests appearing during the season. The official press release can be downloaded here. Other Bond films starring Moore presented at BFI Sounthabnk will include The Man Whith The Golden Gun, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only and A View To A Kill. Source: Gareth Owen
March 10
Eyes on Kenya update. The holiday television special Eyes on Kenya, filmed in Nairobi last August, premiered on American TV on Dec 3, 2008. The film, produced by Associated Television International, features Sir Roger Moore, Louis Gossett, Jr., Dean Cain, Shannon Elizabeth and other celebrities as they travel through Kenya, examining the extreme poverty and breathtaking beauty of this remarkable country. The film has now its own website at: www.eyesonkenya.com.
February 29
Sir Roger in Eilat to promote project against AIDS in Africa. Sir Roger Moore has donated the fee he earns from appearing at the fourth International Eilat Chamber Music Festival to a UNICEF program where Israeli expertise is used in training doctors to perform male circumcision as a way of reducing AIDS transmission in Africa. More information. Source: Marie-France Vienne
February 25
Bond star draws attention to AIDS in Swaziland. Sir Roger Moore is drawing attention to a small, AIDS-devastated southern African country. Moore, known for playing James Bond and a UNICEF goodwill ambassador since 1991, said in an interview Monday he was donating proceeds from a concert to Israelis training Swazis to perform circumcisions. Circumcision has been shown to cut the risk of contracting the AIDS virus by as much as 60 percent. "Who better than Jewish and Muslim doctors (from Israel) to carry out this procedure? Because they do it by the thousands," Moore said from Israel, where he was to narrate Camille Saint-Saens's "Carnival of the Animals" Tuesday at the Eilat Chamber Music Festival. Moore expects to raise $5,000. An estimated 185,000 of Swaziland's 1 million people are HIV positive.
Source: Associated Press
February 19
Broccoli centenary celebrations at BFI Southbank. BFI has announced a season of films and events to celebrate the legacy of the legendary producer of the Bond franchise. BFI Southbank will launch a retrospective of Broccoli’s work in April 2009. The press release says: "We will start with an evening of glamour and action when we will transform our main foyer into a glamorous casino – royale style. Bond films may be seen as they were originally intended, on the big screen, and all James Bonds will be remembered – a few will even delight us with tales of their turn as the infamous agent". The first part of a two-month season will feature the earliest films produced by Broccoli including The Red Beret (1953), The Cockleshell Heroes (1955), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968) and the early Bond films. James Bond, including films starring Sir Roger Moore, will return in May.
February 16
My Word Is My Bond on BBC Radio 2. From Friday April 24th, at 21.45, over 6 weeks BBC Radio 2 will be broadcasting 15 minute programmes of My Word Is My Bond - read by Sir Roger Moore. The specially commissioned and recorded series will tie in with the paperback publication of the bestselling book. You can listen on line live, or 'listen again' from a day after, via the website: www.bbc.co.uk/radio2 Source: Gareth Owen
February 9
4th Eilat Chamber Music Festival. Sir Roger Moore is to take part in this year's edition of the Eilate Chamber Music Festival. This year's ECMF program includes among many others, Maxim Vengerov, leading a unique all virtuosi orchestra performing Mendelssohn's "Scottish" symphony with cellist Natalia Gutman, violinist Julian Rachlin and pianist Itamar Golan in solo performances. Sir Roger Moore will be narrating Saint-Saens' "Carnival of the Animals". The festival will taking place between 22 February to 1 March. To read more about the festival click here. Source: Marie-France Vienne
February 7
Remembering Pinewood Studios. As Pinewood and Shepperton are given awards at the Baftas tomorrow, Sir Roger Moore remembers the banter, the canteen encounters and the sheer professionalism of an English factory of dreams in a very interesting and thorough article for London Times. Click here for full text.
February 4
My Word is My Bond paperback. The UK paperback edition of Sir Roger Moore's autobiography will be published in early May 2009. It will feature a different cover to the hardback edition, and retail at £8.99. In addition there will be PR tours to Finland, Sweden and Germany from May this year. There's no confirmation if these trips will include book signings as yet, as they are still being planned. Source: Gareth Owen
January 30
The Saint box sets in Sweden. The black and white episodes of The Saint are being released in Sweden for the first time. The first, 6-DVD box set is available from December 6. The second one is set for a release on February 3. To read more about the box sets and order them click here. Source: Glenn Folkvord
In addition Network DVD offers some Saint DVDs (including the latest feature documentary) in lower prices from January.
Source: Ipacs Tibor
January 19
Sir Roger Moore pays tribute to Celine Cawley. Herald.ie reports: James Bond actor Roger Moore paid tribute to deceased businesswoman Celine Cawley who was attacked in her Howth home in December. Speaking in Dublin at the weekend, the ex-007 star said said that Celine was a "lovely woman". Celine had a brief walk-on part in the Bond movie, A View to a Kill. "I remember Celine well - she was a lovely woman. I heard the news and I was sorry for her," recalled Roger Moore. "It was a real tragedy." Businesswoman Celine (46) was found badly beaten on December 15 and later died of her injuries. Her husband, Eamonn Lillis, was later charged with her murder. The 81-year-old Bond actor was in Dublin to promote his book My World is My Bond at the weekend. As a 20-year-old aspiring model, Celine moved to New York and posed for photo shoots with American Vogue and Christian Dior, and mingled with stars such as John McEnroe, Bruce Springsteen, Jacqueline Bisset, Ryan O'Neal and Brook Shields. In 1985, the pretty Dubliner had a brief walk on part in the 14th James Bond movie. Source: Herald.ie
January 15
Bond screenings in New Jersey. New Jersey's Landmark Theatre has lined up three of Roger Moore's James Bond films for the big screen later this month. 007 fans can catch The Man with the Golden Gun (Friday 30 Jan, 8pm), For Your Eyes Only and Octopussy (both Saturday 31 Jan, 3.30 and 7.30pm). Ticket pricing is as follows: General Admission ($6.00) / Seniors & Children 12 and younger ($4.00). Special Double Feature Pricing: General Admission ($8.00) / Seniors & Children 12 and younger ($6.00). The Landmark Theatre is located at 54 Journal Square, Jersey City, New Jersey 07306. For further information or to purchase tickets, phone 201-798-6055 or visit the official website. Source: CommanderBond.net
January 13
Cats & Dogs featuring former Saint. Sir Roger Moore has just joined the vocal cast for Warner Bros. sequel to its 2001 hit, Cats & Dogs. Tentatively titled The Revenge of Kitty Galore, the film is due for release next year. It is directed by Brad Peyton and features performances by Chris O'Donnell, Jack McBrayer, Kiernan Shipka and Paul Rodriguez among others. Source: Gareth Owen
January 7
Sir Roger Moore in Ireland. On January 16, Sir Roger Moore will be joining the Burlington Hotel for a night of entertainment, glamour and excitement. Organised by UNICEF Ireland all the benefits will go to the Child Survival Programmes. This exclusive black-tie event includes a four-course meal with wine, full casino entertainment with music and stunning prizes and other gifts. Info : UNICEF Ireland, 33 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1 +353 (01) 8783000. In addition on Saturday 17th January at 2pm, Sir Roger will be signing copies of his autobiography at Eason's on O'Connell Street.
Sources: Marie-France Vienne & Gareth Owen
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