JIM CAVIEZEL - CAVIEZEL TURNS DOWN $75 MILLION PAYDAY

Movie star JIM CAVIEZEL has turned down the chance to become a multi-millionaire by starring in a series of TV commercials - because he wants to stay true to his strict Catholic beliefs.

The actor has become hot property since starring as JESUS in MEL GIBSON's epic THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST, but the 35-year-old has turned down a series of deals - worth an estimated $75 million (GBP41.7 million).

He says, "I think if I had given way on just one scheme, I would have been tempted to do more. It would have been the easiest thing in the world to make that kind of money quickly.

"That sum would secure your future, but I would never be able to forgive myself."

Among the deals Caviezel turned down was one for a T-shirt company's new 'Heavenly' line of apparel.

He adds, "I could see the humour in it... but I think I would have upset a lot of people who got something special from the film."