Hollywood actor Paul Walker turned down the chance to become the new Superman, because he doesn't want to be remembered as the superhero for the rest of his life.

THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS star was tempted to accept the coveted role because of its financial implications, but decided against it.

He says, "They made it very clear that Superman was mine if I wanted it. I was aware that with all the deals that went with it, the merchandising and all that stuff, I would be made for life financially.

"So I asked the director whether I should do it and he said that if I said yes, the studio would effectively own me for another ten years and that I'd be identified with the role of Superman until I died.

"I came to the conclusion that I didn't need that at this stage of my career."

07/01/2004 14:00