Brosnan makes way for new Bond Bana

So it is farewell to Irishman Pierce Brosnan. He is to be put out to grass after a handful of box office hits as one of the most successful James Bonds. Brosnan helped turn the long-running series around when he took over after a run of increasingly indifferent efforts.

He is to be replaced by 35-year-old Eric 'The Hulk' Bana, who came from behind to beat off strong challenges from several better-known stars. Bana, say insiders, will bring a "youthful, suave and more modern" tone to the films.