This article was originally published on SmartCelery
When looking at Pierce Brosnan, you immediately think he has a glamorous lifestyle. But he had a rough start to life and had to work extremely hard to get to where he is today. Even though he is a successful actor, he's had his fair share of heartbreak and tragedy. And unlike his character 007, he could not keep cool, calm, and collected at all times. However, it has not been all doom and gloom; he has had some amazing roles and known true love. In addition, he has been blessed with 5 children and surprised many with his hands-on approach to parenting.
Abandoned by Both Parents
Pierce had a rough start in life. On May 16, 1953, he came into this world in Drogheda, Ireland. A few months later, his father left and never came back. When he turned four, his mother decided to try and find work in London and left him with his grandparents. Unfortunately, both of his grandparents passed away, and he was sent to live in a boarding house.
Seven years later, Pierce's mother finally brought him over to London; he was 11 years old at the time. It was hard for Brosnan to adapt to his new surroundings. He even had a new stepfather, but luckily, he was a good man who cared deeply for Pierce.
Figuring Out How to Fit in
Although Brosnan was excited to have a real family again, he found it challenging to fit in at times. He was in a different country with different customs. Pierce didn't really know his mother and had a new stepfather. Brosnan stood out at school because he was taller than the other children, had a funny Irish accent, and was bullied badly.
To distract himself from the constant teasing, Pierce decided to pursue a new talent he discovered, performing. He initially became a fire-eater, and eventually, he almost ran away with the circus, but luckily, he was accepted to the Drama Centre and London.
Being Discovered
Once Pierce graduated in 1975, he got a job as an assistant stage manager. But his life would be forever changed when he decided to audition for Tennessee Wiliams' The Red Devil Battery Sign play. Initially, he didn't get the part, but the lead actor suddenly quit the show, and Pierce was next on the list. But first, he would have to prove himself and audition for Williams before they offered him the role.
The audition was a huge success!, Bronsnan owes the rest of his career to this role. The audience loved the play and couldn't get enough of Pierce. Not only was he talented, good looking and confident; he was also kind and generous.
Finding Love
Brosnan was enjoying his success and had no intention of settling down. However, he attended a close friend's house party and met the most beautiful woman in the world, Australian actress Cassandra Harris. He was smitten, but she was married to Dermont Harris, a film producer. One year after meeting Pierce, Cassandra divorced her husband, and they got married two years later. Brosnan adopted her two children after their father passed away.
They both landed up acting in Bond movies. Cassandra was first; she played Countess Lisl von Schiaf in "For your Eyes Only," and he played 007 in GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World is Not Enough, and Die Another Day.
Love Was Worth Waiting for
Brosnan was a devoted husband and soon bonded with her children, who were teenagers at the time. They loved him so much that when their biological father passed away, and Pierce adopted them, they took his name. Their bond only grew stronger through the years, and they could rely on him for anything. Being and husband and father came so naturally to him.
Because Brosnan had a rough start in life, he wanted his family to be happy and carefree. He was able to provide a healthy balance to the household. Everything was looking up for him, he was happily married, and his career was skyrocketing!
A New Arrival
Three years after getting married, the couple welcomed a son, Sean Brosnan, into the world. They couldn't be happier; he was the picture of health and cute as a button. Pierce and Cassandra encouraged Sean to pursue acting from a young age, and he eventually attended The Central School of Speech and Drama. Sean was a natural and graduated with Honors.
Having a son together only strengthened their marriage and they were always pushing each other to achieve more. It was a match made in heaven. Cassandra had finally found the man of her dreams, after 2 failed marriages.
A Little White Lie
His home life was blissful, but both Brosnan and Cassandra wanted to shine brighter. They wanted the glitz and glam of Hollywood, but at the time, were unable to afford to travel beyond the pond. But as with any happy and healthy marriage, they pushed each other to achieve their dreams and finally came up with a plan that would make the trip to Los Angeles possible.
Pierced decided to take out a loan for home improvement, but with the intention to use the money to purchase plane tickets for him and his family. It was a little white lie that would change their lives forever.
Endless Opportunities
America was a shock to the system, but in a good way for the Brosnans. Opportunities in Hollywood were endless for the glamorous couple. Shortly after arriving, Pierce was offered a lead role in a series, The Manions of America. He didn't have to think twice about accepting it, as the character he needed to portray was close to his heart.
The series is based on an Irish Farmer who flees to America after the Great Famine that plagued Ireland in 1845. It's a story about adventure, love, and success. Critics praised Pierce for his portrayal of Rory O'Manion, and his success opened many doors for him.
Beloved by His Fans
Once The Manions of America premiered, Brosnan was an instant hit. His fans adored him, and casting directors were starting to take notice. As a result, he was soon offered another role. Originally, Brosnan was asked to audition for the funny sidekick on a show called Remington Steele. But the directors could not ignore his rugged good looks and talent, so he was cast as the lead.
The show was about a female P.I. who couldn't break into the business as a female, so she invents a boss called Remington Steele, played by Brosnan. The show premiered on NBC in 1982.
When Strong Personalities Clash
Pierce is known for his kind nature and generally gets along well with his co-stars, but sometimes different personalities clash, and that's exactly what happened on the set of Remington Steele. The cast often spoke out about the tension between Brosnan and Stephanie Zimbalist, who played his love interest on the show; how awkward! It can't be easy to act like your in love when you despise the person.
But it just goes to show how professional these two actors are; even though they didn't acknowledge each other when not in character, their acting was always on point, and they convinced many viewers they were in love.
Destined to Meet Again
Brosnan's career was flourishing, and everything seemed to be going his way until one absurd day. When Pierce was 31, he went to Ireland to film an episode of Remington Steele. He was thrown for a loop one day when someone announced that his father was there to see him. He had never met his father; Thomas Brosnan had abandoned the family when Pierce was a baby.
They met for lunch and talked about many things, drank some Guinness, and then Thomas said goodbye and walked away - never to be seen again. Brosnan admitted that he would have liked to know more about his father. However, Pierce believes that his non-existent relationship with his dad has made him a better father.
Important Role Models
However, Brosnan's childhood started out; eventually, he found a stable home. When he was 11, he was reunited with his mother and inherited a stepfather, William Carmichael. His stepfather was a kind man who took Pierce under his wing. He even took him to see his first Bond movie, Goldfinger. They had a close bond, and Brosnan believes he owes a lot of his parenting skills to William.
Pierce had to face another tragedy when his stepfather fell ill and passed away. When he found out that William was sick, he cleared his schedule and stayed by his side. Family always comes first in Brosnan's world.
007 Rumors
While Pierce Brosnan was working on Remington Steele, rumors started circulating that he would be the next James Bond. His series was a major hit, and his fanbase was growing by the day. But it wasn't meant to be, as his show was so popular, it was renewed for another season, and he was forbidden to accept other roles while filming Steele.
It was a catch 22 for Brosnan, who was grateful that his show was such a hit but sad that he could not accept his dream of becoming James Bond. Little did he know what lay ahead.
Fatherhood Came Naturally
While Brosnan was working on Remmington Steele, he found out that he was going to be a father. Cassandra was pregnant with their son, Sean Brosnan. This news was exactly what he needed to get over the disappointment of not being 007. The couple could not contain their excitement, and Sean was born on September 13, 1983. The proud parents couldn't wait to bring him home and introduce him to the rest of the family.
It seems that Sean decided to show up at the exact right moment, and the Brosnan family were happy for a time. But nothing good lasts forever, and this was never more true than it was for Pierce.
A Devastating Blow
The family of 5 had four incredible years together, and Brosnan's career skyrocketed. However, his acting career kept him very busy, so he decided to turn a work trip to India into a family vacation. The holiday started off well, but Cassandra fell ill and was always complaining about stomach cramps and fatigue. At first, nobody thought much of it, but they soon realized this was more serious.
When they arrived back in Los Angeles, Cassandra visited her doctor, and the diagnosis was not good. Just like her mother before her, Cassandra had ovarian cancer. The family was devasted by her news and rallied to her side.
Home Is Where the Heart Is
Sadly, Cassandra didn't have long to live, and they wanted to make her time left on earth as happy and comfortable as possible. That's why Pierce decided to buy Cassandra the house of her dreams. It just so happens that that home was in Malibu, with the calming sounds of the ocean nearby. Not only was the home beautiful, but it also provided the tranquility they needed.
Cassandra was ill from chemotherapy when viewing the home, but seeing the house immediately lifted her spirits, which was their deciding factor. Brosnan put in an offer on the spot, and it was accepted.
She Made Him a Better Person
Cassandra and Brosnan were a good match in every way, and their love survived the test of time. Pierce often says that he owes Harris for pushing him to pursue acting and many of the lead roles he has played. She was his pillar, and he was hers. That's why her fate was too hard to accept, and instead of wallowing in sadness, they chose to enjoy their last moments together.
Pierce wanted to give up his career to be by her side, but she refused. Instead, she was adamant that he continue doing what he loved like there was nothing wrong. She didn't want to be doted on and certainly didn't want him to give up his passion.
The Time Had Come
Fighting ovarian cancer took its toll on Cassandra, and although she fought as hard as she possibly could, she succumbed to her illness four years after being diagnosed. Brosnan spent every minute of his free time doting on his wife, seeing to her every need. But sadly, no matter what they tried, nothing worked. Cassandra's fate was sealed, and she passed away in 1991.
Harris left a gaping hole in her families' life. She was the glue that held everyone together. But although Brosnan was devasted and broken, he had to step up and take hold of the reigns for his family's sake.
Moving Forward Without Harris
Pierce had lost his supporter but carried on for her. Two years after Cassandra lost her life, Brosnan was offered a supporting role in Mrs. Doubtfire, co-starring Robin Williams, and Sally Field. Pierce played the unwelcomed boyfriend of Sally Field after her and Robin Williams characters get divorced. The movie was cast perfectly and earned rave reviews; it scored 72% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Brosnan had Tim Allen to thank for this role, as he rejected the opportunity. Although the directors thought Pierce would be the right person for the job, they had to alter his character who was meant to be a villian.
Robin Williams Number One Fan
Brosnan was thrilled to be working alongside such a renowned actor as Robin Williams. The first time he met Williams they were on set for Mrs. Doubtfire. Williams was getting his makeup done and it was a sight that Brosnan will never forget. Williams had his back to him so all that Brosnan could see was his Hawaiian shirt and hairy arms.
Then Williams turned around with full Mrs. Doubtfire make-up and greeted him in character. Brosnan loved every second of filming the movie and recalls that “[Robin] was brilliant. Sally was gorgeous. She and I got on like gas on fire. It was so delightfully enchanting.” And just when he thought that it couldn’t get any better, it did.
The Names Bond, James Bond
When Brosnan had to pass up the role of James Bond previously, he believed that it was an opportunity that only came around once in a lifetime. Luckily for him (and us), it came around twice! In 1994, Brosnan got offered his dream role as Agent 007 and signed a three-film contract with the company.
He made his James Bond Debut in 1995s GoldenEye. He loved playing the role and boy did people love him in it! He brought some of his personal flair to the character and it just worked. In fact, out of all the Bond films, GoldenEye brought in the most money.
A Fluctuation in Weight
Brosnan was perfect for the role of James Bond. He had the right amount of charm and sophistication. But what he didn't have was the right amount of weight. His build differed from those who came before him, something his tailors noticed during fittings. Pierce was the lightest actor that had ever played Bond.
It seemed that Brosnan tried to make up for this and may have overcompensated slightly. Seven years later, he was busy filming his fourth Bond film and the tailors made another discovery. In seven years, he had gone from being the lightest 007 Agent they had ever had to the heaviest. But he may not have noticed these changes since his contract had a strange stipulation in it.
A Small Price to Pay
James Bond’s character is known for his sophisticated look and tailored tuxedos. Brosnan had just been given the role of his dreams. In his mind, a strange stipulation in his contract was a small price to pay for an opportunity like this.
The directors wanted Brosnan in a suit to make people instantly think of James Bond. But how were they supposed to accomplish that if he wore tuxedos in other films? The only way to do that was to put it in the contract that Brosnan signed. Brosnan was going to be their James Bond for a good few years so they couldn’t have him (and his tuxedos) waltzing in and out of other films.
A Second Chance at Love
After his wife passed, Brosnan thought that he could never love again. So all of his energy went into his family and his career. But sometimes, the stars align and everything just falls into place. That happened for Brosnan in 1994 when he stumbled upon a career-altering role and love at the same time.
Keely Shaye Smith was an American journalist who Brosnan referred to as his “North Star.” The two started dating immediately and Smith helped Brosnan find peace after the passing of Harris. Smith gave him peace, love, and two more children. But this was just the beginning of their fairytale love story.
Pushing Himself to the Limit
Throughout his acting career, Brosnan pushed himself to become a better actor. And as we learned previously, he wasn’t afraid to take risks when attempting to reach his goal. So in 1996, the actor ventured out of his comfort zone and founded a production company.
Together with his friend of many years Beau St. Clair, the two created Irish DreamTime. It took a lot of time, energy, and teamwork but his risk paid off. The first film produced was called The Nephew and while it did alright, it was the second film that got them the recognition that they needed. The production of The Thomas Crown Affair was a huge success and solidified their name in the industry.
Fatherhood Looked Good on Him
The experiences that children go through, stay with them forever. Those who have a terrible childhood generally choose one of two parenting styles. They could either be exactly like their parents or they could vow to be nothing like them. For Brosnan, he found himself choosing the latter.
He loved the fact that he had a big family and had already proven himself a great father to his children. In 1997 and 2001 the Brosnan family welcomed two new sons, Dylan and Paris. As with his acting career, Brosnan took fatherhood seriously and always put his family first. And part of that meant making a public commitment to Smith.
She Was Something Special
When he met her, Brosnan knew that Smith was something special. After years of dating and two children, Brosnan felt that it was about time he got to call Smith his wife. In 2001, the couple met each other at the altar and exchanged vows. They got married in a historical building known as the Ballintubber Abbey in Ireland.
Today, this building is over 800 years old! This building meant something special to Brosnan. It represented him returning to his Irish roots to make a lifelong commitment. It seemed the perfect place for the two to officially start their future together as husband and wife. It’s been 20 years and their love for one another is stronger than ever.
In Love No Matter What
It's no easy feat to be married to a world-famous actor, let alone a good-looking one. there's a lot of pressure to always look your best. Seeing as Smith has much experience being in front of the camera, it makes sense that she used to have a figure that would make anyone jealous. However, she has had to deal with weight fluctuations in her life - as many of us do.
After giving birth, Smith started to put on weight and the pounds just seemed to keep on coming. Eventually, the former TV host managed to lose quite a bit of her gained weight, either 100 or 120 pounds - depending on which reports you read. The couple can still be seen smooching, so their love surely doesn't seem to fluctuate.
He Never Saw It Coming
Brosnan loved playing the role of Agent 007 but he also knew that he wouldn’t be playing it forever. He just thought that when the time came for the next Bond to step in and take over, that he would have seen it coming. He thought that he had at least two or three more movies before he’d have to say goodbye.
That’s why he was shocked when he received an out-of-the-blue call from producers. They said that they planned on going “a different way.” It was a way that didn't include him as their lead anymore. Brosnan was blindsided and felt as though he had just been “kicked to the curb.” But in true Bond fashion, Brosnan left gracefully and without making a scene.
One Very Sweet Incentive
After being thrown a curveball and no longer recusing his role as James Bond, Brosnan decided to shift his acting career ever so slightly. He went from guns and action to randomly bursting into song when he accepted a role in the musical Mamma Mia! It was something different but there may have been another reason for his acceptance of the role.
It was an all-star cast but there was one woman in particular that he wanted the opportunity to work alongside. He admitted to accepting the role as soon as he heard her name, without paying attention to the script or his character. He fondly remembered Streep as the “gorgeous blonde” whom he’d “fancied terribly in Drama school.” Unfortunately, to perform in a musical, you need to be able to sing. A skill that fans felt Brosnan lacked.
The Critics Were Ruthless
Pierce Brosnan accepted his role as Sam Carmichael in Mamma Mia! before looking at his role closely. Streep had a huge fan in Brosnan but he may have been in over his head with this one. He was musically inclined so his preparation for the film involved him walking up and down the coast practicing his singing.
Unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to save him from the ruthlessness of critics. And they didn't hold back! They compared his singing to a “water buffalo,” a “donkey,” and an injured “raccoon.” The only thing that saved his performance was his charm. Sadly, accepting a role in a musical wasn’t the only questionable choice that Brosnan made.
Fans Began to Question His Ethics
Brosnan was a popular actor who was loved by all. But he made a choice that had his fans questioning the type of man that he truly was. In 2010, the political thriller The Ghost Writer was released and Pierce Brosnan was one of the leads. But the film was directed by Roman Polanski who had been banned by the United States of America.
Polanski fled the country after having had sexual relations with a minor and facing a rape charge. This was public knowledge when Brosnan accepted the role. He claimed that he respected the director’s work and “didn’t let the rest of his life influence my choice.” As someone with a daughter, you’d think that he would’ve turned the role down. After hearing others share their stories, he looked back on his decision in a new light.
Looking Back on His Decision
As a successful male in the entertainment industry, Brosnan had been sheltered from what life as a woman in the same industry was like. But the #MeToo movement that swept through Hollywood opened his eyes to the horrendous conditions. Women started sharing what had happened (and continue to happen) to them and their stories made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.
The movement forced Brosnan to look back on his decision to support someone like Polanski. During an interview, Brosnan said that “I don’t know if, in this climate, I would have made the same decision, the same choice. These are dangerous times and it’s a very toxic world.” He couldn’t necessarily change the way that women were treated in the industry but he found a way to help support them in other ways.
Deep Passion for Activism
Brosnan is a world-renowned actor who understands that his fame comes with responsibilities. As with the other important things in his life, Brosnan takes these responsibilities very seriously. Over the years, he has used his influence and resources to support causes close to his heart.
Unsurprisingly, one of these causes is cancer awareness after losing the first love of his life. But Brosnan was passionate about helping others and giving back to people and the environment. Profits from paintings went to women’s health, environmental, and children’s charities. He has even been an Ambassador for UNICEF Ireland for 20 years. Brosnan is a passionate man who married a woman who is just as passionate.
Together, They Were a Power Couple
Brosnan had a passion for making the world a better place. Luckily for him, he managed to find a partner who was just as passionate about it. Through it all, they supported one another and did whatever they could to help others.
Still today, the couple works with several conservation organizations and has even produced a documentary. The documentary notes the impact of experimental pesticides on Hawaii’s environment. But while Brosnan was striving to be a better man, husband, and father, his eldest adopted son Christopher was making it difficult.
The Hardest Decision of His Life
Brosnan had faced many challenges in his life but nothing could prepare him for making one of the hardest decisions of his life. Despite being his adoptive father, Brosnan treated Christopher as his own. And as we know, for Brosnan, family always came first. Christopher didn’t handle his mother’s death very well, much like everyone else.
But instead of talking about his feelings, he turned to a world of drugs for help. Brosnan knew how dangerous this world was and tried to save his son from being sucked in. Sadly, he was unsuccessful and came to a harsh realization. By supporting his son, he was enabling his addiction. So he made a decision that he never thought he’d have to make.
A Little Bit of Tough Love
Brosnan did everything that he possibly could to help his son. But as you know, you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink. In other words, you can offer people opportunities but you can’t force them to take them. Eventually, Brosnan couldn’t take it anymore. It broke his heart but he knew what he had to do.
For his own sanity and mental health, Brosnan cut Christopher off completely. He recalls having to say “Go. Get busy living, or get busy dying.” At the end of the day, it’s his son and he prays that one day Christopher will find his back. Unlike her older brother, Charlotte never gave her father a hard time. Sadly, she wasn’t given the time that her brother had.
Tragedy Found Him Once Again
When Harris died, she left a hole in her family’s lives that could never be filled. Not only did they lose her, but they had to watch her suffer. The thought of having to do it all over again with his daughter Charlotte broke Brosnan’s heart. She received the same diagnosis as her mother and passed away at the age of 41.
Brosnan chooses to remember Charlotte as his “funny, wonderful daughter,” the person that she was before she fell ill. Having to watch another woman that he loved suffer the same way that her mother did tore him apart. He said that eventually, “sorrow becomes an indelible part of your psyche.” But tragedy wasn’t done with him just yet.
Cancer Won Once Again
Brosnan was still grieving the loss of his daughter when he heard some more tragic news. She may have only been a friend but they were close enough to be family. Just three years after he lost his daughter, his dear friend Beau St. Clair passed away. The real kicker is that she too lost a fight against ovarian cancer.
Beau put up a good fight but after 10 years her body was tired and didn't have anything left. Brosnan called her the sister that he never had and mourned her loss as if she were. They had been friends for 30 years and Brosnan couldn’t picture a world without her. But one thing was for sure, he wasn’t taking any of his loved ones for granted again.
His Sons Call Him a Dreamer
Brosnan has had a career full of success and awards. He was nominated twice for the Golden Globe Awards and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. His talents even got him an honorary OBE for his contributions to British Cinema. Audiences are fans not only of his acting but also of his looks! He was voted “Sexiest Man Alive” by People magazine and also as one of the “50 Most Beautiful People in the World.”
Today, Pierce Brosnan is 68 years old and there’s still no stopping him. He plans on painting and acting until he’s physically incapable of doing so. He often dreams of a better world and his sons call him a dreamer. But it’s a title that he’s happy to hold.
Through: Jay Godwin