Actor Clive Owen has dismissed reports that he had turned down the role of James Bond in "Casino Royale." (File Photo)

BEIJING, Aug. 3 -- Actor Clive Owen has dismissed reports that he had turned down the role of James Bond in "Casino Royale."

The previous Bond, Pierce Brosnan, was replaced by Daniel Craig for "Casino Royale," but Owen was rumored to have refused the part offered to him by director Martin Campbell, World Entertainment News Network reported.

He says: 'I didn't turn it down. I was never offered it. It was all hype. My wanting the role was never an issue. It was all spun. By whom I have no idea."