Pierce Brosnan is well-known for his on-screen portrayals of inimitable secret service agent James Bond. But now the Irish-born actor has become an "Officer of the British Empire" for real, as he was awarded an OBE from the Queen.
The 50-year-old said it was a "real joy" as he received the honour in a ceremony at the British Ambassador's residence in Dublin. "When they called me a few months ago about this, I wasn't quite sure they had the right person, but as the months wore on I realise it was for real," he said. "I am here with my family, my children, and it is a day to be treasured."
And despite his modesty, Foreign Secretary Jack Straw was in little doubt that County Meath's most famous son deserved the accolade. "In his portrayal of 007 in the last four Bond films, he has added style and glamour to the image of Britain overseas. But he has also worked very hard behind the scenes in supporting an array of charitable causes."
Asides from his acting achievements, Pierce is also a special patron for Unicef and campaign chairman of the Entertainment Industry Foundation.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
