Pierce Brosnan has apologised to the people of India after lending his face to an ad campaign for cancer-linked pan masala.
The 63-year-old appeared on the front page of several indian newspapers and TV advertisements a few weeks ago promoting pan masala, a product that can contain tobacco, lime, spices and nuts and has been linked mouth and throat cancer.
The James Bond actor has spoken out saying he was unaware of the harmful effect of the product and was under the impression that the product he was advertising was “a breath freshener/tooth whitener (and) all-natural, containing neither tobacco, supari, nor any other harmful ingredient”.
The Navan native was adamant in protesting his innocence, especially because he lost both his first wife and daughter to cancer.
“I would never have entered into an agreement to promote a product in India that is dangerous to one’s health.” he said in a statement.
“Having endured, in my own personal life, the loss of my first wife and daughter as well as numerous friends to cancer, I am fully committed to supporting women’s healthcare and research programmes that improve human health and alleviate suffering. I shall endeavor to rectify this matter,” he continued.
“In the meantime please accept my sincerest and heartfelt apologies to all whom I have offended.”
