Pierce Brosnan was not offered the chance to reprise his role as James Bond because he demanded too much money for the job, reports Contactmusic.com.

Film bosses were open to the idea of keeping Brosnan, who had rekindled interest in the suave secret agent in movies such as Die Another Day, but apparently thought twice when he demanded $42m for the privilege.

The Irish star reportedly said that he was "surprised, disappointed and saddened" when he learned of the producers' decision, and added that his proposed reward "was an honest fee in terms of how much blood, sweat and tears I put into the role".