Pierce Brosnan shocked after learning paan masala's 'deceptive use of his image'

In an exclusive statement to People magazine, the former James Bond actor revealed that he was "deeply shocked and saddened" after learning about the harmful effects of paan masala and the subsequent ban.

"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," said Pierce Brosnan.

Also read: James Bond endorses Indian paan masala, sends fans into shock

He added, "I would never have entered into an agreement to promote a product in India that is dangerous to one’s health."

Brosnan explained that he was assured the product was “all-natural containing neither tobacco, supari, nor any other harmful ingredient." His contract stated that he was endorsing a "breath freshener/tooth whitener," without mentioning that it turns saliva red.

The actor, who lost his first wife and daughter to cancer, was extremely disheartened to hear that the product contains cancer-causing ingredients:

"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 programs that improve human health and alleviate suffering."

Also read: Pierce Brosnan's paan masala ad banned in India

The Hollywood actor offered his sincerest apologies to Indians and said in the statement, "I shall endeavor to rectify this matter. In the meantime, please accept my sincerest and heartfelt apologies to all whom I have offended. [I have the] greatest love and affection for India and its people."

Taking immediate action, the 63-year-old has demanded the company to remove his image from their ads as it's "in violation of my contract."