13 DECEMBER 2005

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During his years as Britain's favourite spy, Pierce Brosnan was always ice-cool and clean shaven. It would appear 007 has decided to let his hair down, however, as the Irish heart-throb was sporting a pointy moustache and beard when he stepped out for the premiere of his latest film.

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The 52-year-old, who had also adopted a longer, more laid-back hairstyle, caused quite a stir when he arrived for the screening. He underwent the transformation for his role opposite fellow Irishman Liam Neeson in the forthcoming Civil War drama Seraphim Falls. "I had to go hairy in the name of acting – my part required it," he explained. "The beard makes a nice change."

On Monday night all eyes were on Pierce's latest release The Matador, however. The unusual comedy, which also stars Greg Kinnear, marks quite a departure for the performer. In the flick, he abandons the unflappable persona he became known for in the Bond franchise to play a disillusioned hit man who finds a new lease of life after striking up a friendship with a travelling salesman.

Find Pierce Brosnan, Greg Kinnear, on Ask Jeeves

Pierce Brosnan, Greg Kinnear

Pierce's wife Keely Shaye Smith gets a good look at her hubby's new beard. "I had to go hairy in the name of acting," joked the 52-year-old actor
Photo: © Rex
Click on photos to enlarge

Co-star Greg Kinnear also seemed much taken with the Irish heart-throb's new look
Photo: © Getty Images

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