Unlicensed to Kill: Pierce Brosnan sorry for ad promoting carcinogenic Indian chew tobacco product
Former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan has apologised for his controversial appearance in an Indian advertisement promoting a brand largely known for producing chewing tobacco.
One of the ads in question
Brosnan told People magazine the ad made “unauthorised and deceptive use” of his image, with him claiming he was told the product was a “breath freshener/tooth whitener [and] all-natural, containing neither tobacco, supari, nor any other harmful ingredient”.
The product, pan masala and gutka are recognised carcinogens. Brosnan claims he was “manipulated” into representing the brand.
In a statement, he added: “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.
“As a man who has spent decades championing women’s healthcare and environmental protection, I was distressed to learn of Pan Bahar’s unauthorized and deceptive use of my image to endorse their range of pan masala products. I would never have entered into an agreement to promote a product in India that is dangerous to one’s health.”
Brosnan said he has demanded the removal of his image from the products and the advertising campaigns.