ROBERT EVANS

THE COTTON CLUB producer was approached by US cable network HBO earlier this year (06) to make a cameo in the comedy show, but he refused, although he did give permission for the cast and crew to use his home.

In this month's (AUG06) episodes of the show however, MARTIN LANDAU plays a 'washed-up' film-maker named BOB RYAN, which insiders claim is based on Evans.

A source tells the New York Daily News, "They named the character Bob and made him an old, loopy producer. They even used Evans' own house in the show."

However, a HBO representative insists, "Bob Ryan was not based on Robert Evans."