The `Brosnan Axed` rumours evolve into absurdity, fan opinion that it was an MGM PR stunt turns into news overnight

11-Feb-2004 • Casino Royale

Monday`s Daily Mail claim that Pierce Brosnan has been axed as James Bond was proliferated throughout the world`s media, with varying levels of hyperbole.

Now the rumour has evolved into absurdity, with claims that the news piece was simply an experiment to gauge public opinion on whether Brosnan is too old to carry on.

MGM and Eon Productions have yet to officially comment on the stories.

The new rumour stems from a fan posting on the alt.fan.james-bond internet newsgroup, who claims he spoke to "an old colleague who works with Debbie McWilliams in the EON casting department" and that "EON are waiting to gauge public reaction to the rumour before they publicise the news through an official channel".

This unconfirmed opinion has now been turned into fact overnight by various channels.

The Chinese whisper effect has certainly bred some interesting stories this week. Australian newspapers are now claiming Hugh Jackman has already signed on as Brosnan`s replacement - despite earlier news that he has committed to his Wolverine X-Men franchise instead.

MI6 Rumour Rating: Don`t believe anything you read on the matter unless it comes from MGM or Eon Productions.