Or has there been more than a single James Bond? The Bond depicted in the novels is an earthier, darker character than the flippant charmer common to the films' enthusiasts. Pierce Brosnan played Bond 4 instances from 1995 to 2002. For youthful enthusiasts of the series, he is the only Bond. His wry smile and dry wit are reminescent of Roger Moore's portrayal of Bond, but Brosnan also guided the character forward.