Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have handed over creative control of the long-running spy franchise to Amazon.
The announcement on Thursday detailed a newly formed joint venture between Amazon MGM Studios, Broccoli and Wilson in which all parties will co-own the intellectual property rights to the 007 brand while Amazon MGM assumes full creative leadership.
Why It Matters
Broccoli and Wilson have long been the stewards of the Bond legacy, overseeing the evolution of the iconic spy across multiple decades and six actors in the lead role. Their father, Albert “Cubby” Broccoli, helped bring Ian Fleming’s creation to the big screen in 1962 with Dr. No, setting the stage for a multibillion-dollar franchise that has spanned 25 official films.
Amazon MGM’s creative takeover signals a shift in strategy, though it remains unclear how the studio will approach future Bond films or potential expansions into television or digital content.
Actor Daniel Craig (second from left) stands with (from left) screenwriter Michael G. Wilson, producer Barbara Broccoli and actor Rami Malek during the ceremony to honor him with a star on the Hollywood Walk of… Actor Daniel Craig (second from left) stands with (from left) screenwriter Michael G. Wilson, producer Barbara Broccoli and actor Rami Malek during the ceremony to honor him with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles on October 6, 2021. More Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images
What To Know
The move comes amid reports of creative differences between Broccoli, Wilson and Amazon MGM regarding the franchise’s future, particularly following the conclusion of Daniel Craig’s tenure as 007 in 2021’s No Time to Die.
Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, and the deal is expected to be finalized later this year.
Amazon acquired MGM Studios for $6.5 billion in 2022, gaining access to a vast library of over 4,000 films and 17,000 TV shows. The purchase granted Amazon the distribution rights to all James Bond films and the company has since explored expanding the franchise beyond traditional films, potentially through streaming projects or spin-offs.
What People Are Saying
Barbara Broccoli: “My life has been dedicated to maintaining and building upon the extraordinary legacy that was handed to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli. I have had the honor of working closely with four of the tremendously talented actors who have played 007 and thousands of wonderful artists within the industry. With the conclusion of No Time To Die and Michael retiring from the films, I feel it is time to focus on my other projects.”
Michael G. Wilson: “Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”
Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios: “We are honored to continue this treasured heritage, and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world.”
What Happens Next
While no official casting or production announcements have been made regarding the next installment, speculation continues over who will take up the mantle of 007 and what creative direction the franchise will take under Amazon’s leadership.