Roger Moore dead: Tributes to the James Bond actor flood social media

'My first Bond and one of the first actors that I loved as a kid'

(Moviestore Collection/REX)

Sir Roger Moore — famous for playing the infamous spy James Bond in seven film — has died aged 89 following a short battle with cancer.

Various celebrities have paid tributes to the actor on social media, many posting pictures of the actor wearing a tuxedo as 007.

Bond author Ian Fleming's estate led tributes, writing: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Roger Moore, who brought joy to so many with his portrayal of Bond & his sterling UNICEF work."

Edgar Wright, director of Shaun of the Dead, posted: “RIP Sir Roger Moore. My first Bond and one of the first actors that I loved as a kid. And a lovely, funny, warm person to boot. Farewell.”

Russell Crowe posted: “Roger Moore, loved him. At 10 I used to try to dress like Simon Templar. My mother worked part time at the Indonesian embassy. Added intrigue to my persona.” Moore played Templar in the films The Fiction Makers and Vendetta for the Saint.

Thousands more fans have been paying tribute to the actor, who passed away in Switzerland after a "short but brave battle with cancer". He was the third actor to play James Bond following Sean Connery.

Moore’s death was announced by family members on social media, a statement being issued regarding where and how the actor died.