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Roger Moore as James Bond in safari suit

Roger Moore – The Bond Who Discovered James Bond Island

Sir Roger Moore (1927‑2017) was the third actor to play James Bond, starring in seven films from 1973 to 1985. He was known for his witty, light‑hearted interpretation of 007. His second Bond film, The Man with the Golden Gun (1974), was shot in Phang Nga Bay, turning the area into a tourist magnet. This page covers his career, his time in Thailand, and his connection to James Bond Island.

🎞️ Thai memory: “Roger Moore ma thiao Phang Nga” (โรเจอร์มัวร์มาเที่ยวพังงา) – “Roger Moore came to visit Phang Nga.” Many locals still remember him.

Roger Moore as James Bond

Moore took over from Sean Connery in 1973 with Live and Let Die. He brought a more humorous, self‑deprecating style, often raising an eyebrow instead of throwing a punch. His Bond was elegant and charming. He made seven films – more than any other actor – from 1973 to 1985. His era included The Man with the Golden Gun, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, and Octopussy.

Filming in Thailand

In 1974, Moore and the crew spent two weeks in Phuket and Phang Nga Bay. He stayed at the Pearl Hotel in Phuket Town. Moore later recalled: “It was hot, mosquito‑ridden, but the scenery was like nothing I had ever seen. The limestone towers rising from the sea were magical.” He performed his own seaplane landing (a Republic RC-3 Seabee) and fought a stunt double on the beach. He also enjoyed local food and even visited Koh Panyee, where villagers gave him a shell necklace.

His Legacy on James Bond Island

Because of Moore’s visit, the island became known worldwide. Today, the national park’s sign features a cartoon of his silhouette. Many visitors still ask: “Where did Roger Moore stand?” Local guides point to the exact spot on Khao Phing Kan. A small museum on Koh Panyee has a framed photo of Moore with the village headman. Moore never returned to Thailand, but he spoke fondly of the bay in interviews. After his death in 2017, fans left flowers on the beach.

Other Bond Films in Thailand

Moore’s 1985 film A View to a Kill was partly set in Thailand but filmed elsewhere. Only The Man with the Golden Gun used the bay. Later, Tomorrow Never Dies (1997) with Pierce Brosnan was filmed in Phuket town.

Trivia for Fans

Moore was already 46 when he first played Bond – the oldest debut.
He was a UNICEF ambassador for many years.
He kept a photo of James Bond Island in his home until he died.
His favourite Thai food was tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup).
He never used a stunt double for the seaplane landing – he was a licensed pilot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Did Roger Moore actually fire the golden gun?
A: No. The prop was handled by a weapons expert. Moore only posed with it for close‑up shots.

Q: Can I see any souvenirs of his visit?
A: At the Koh Panyee souvenir shop, there is a small display of photos and a replica of the golden gun he signed.

Q: Did Moore enjoy his time in Thailand?
A: Yes. He later said it was one of his most memorable Bond locations, despite the heat.

Q: Is there a statue of him on the island?
A: No. Only the sign with his silhouette.

🕶️ Local saying: “Roger Moore sii khong dee” (โรเจอร์มัวร์สีของดี) – “Roger Moore, a good colour.” This quirky phrase means he was a good person. Locals still use it when they see a kind foreigner.

Final Word From Local Experts

Roger Moore’s legacy on James Bond Island is undeniable. He may not be everyone’s favourite Bond, but for the people of Phang Nga, he is the man who put them on the map. When you visit, stand on the beach and imagine him in his safari suit, ready to face Scaramanga. That moment of cinematic history is still alive. And when you take your photo with Ko Tapu, remember the actor who made it famous.

— Written by the team at VisitJamesBondIsland.com