Actor Pierce Brosnan expressed deep regret for straying off the designated trail in Yellowstone National Park, located in the western United States, after being fined by a court in Wyoming for venturing too close to one of the park’s delicate thermal areas.
Pierce Brosnan
Brosnan, aged 70, pleaded guilty to the offense of foot travel in a thermal area and was fined $500. Additionally, he was mandated to make a $1,000 community service payment to the Yellowstone Forever Geological Fund, as announced by the US attorney’s office, district of Wyoming, on Thursday.
According to court documents, the James Bond actor had posted photos to his Instagram account in November showing him “standing on a Yellowstone National Park thermal feature at Mammoth Hot Springs,” referencing the scenic spot situated in the park’s northern region.
The court documents highlighted that warning signs were posted in the area, cautioning visitors about the hazards of thermal features and instructing them to stay on designated boardwalks and trails. Venturing off-trail in such thermal areas can pose significant risks due to fragile ground conditions and extremely hot water.
Taking to his Instagram page on Thursday, Brosnan addressed the issue, asserting his identity as an environmentalist with a profound respect and love for the natural world. He acknowledged making an impulsive mistake by entering a thermal area covered in snow to take a photograph, claiming he had not seen a No Trespassing sign warning of danger and had not hiked in the immediate vicinity.
Expressing deep remorse for his actions, Brosnan extended heartfelt apologies to all for trespassing in the sensitive area, emphasizing the importance of caring for and preserving Yellowstone and all national parks for the enjoyment of future generations. He concluded his statement with the hashtag #StayOnThePath.
Brosnan is renowned for his portrayal of the suave 007 agent in four James Bond films from 1995 to 2002, as well as for his roles in the Mamma Mia movies, The Thomas Crown Affair, and, most recently, Black Adam.
Yellowstone National Park boasts numerous attractions, including the famous Old Faithful geyser, which erupts with impressive regularity, along with a multitude of hot pools, mud pots, and other geothermal features. The park is also home to a population of wild bison, with park officials cautioning visitors to maintain a safe distance from these animals following incidents of tourists getting too close, often in pursuit of dramatic selfie photos.
