Amazon MGM takes creative control of the James Bond franchise; producers Barbara Broccoli, Michael G Wilson step back

The James Bond film franchise is set for a significant transition as long-time stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson announced their departure from creative control. The franchise was originally established by Albert “Cubby” Broccoli in 1962, with his daughter and stepson later taking the reins. Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have given the James Bond franchise to Amazon MGM Studios.

Amazon MGM Studios takes over the James Bond film franchise

Moving forward, Amazon MGM Studios will assume creative control after Amazon acquires the franchise’s parent studio in 2022. This announcement comes four years after the release of “No Time to Die,” which marked Daniel Craig’s final portrayal of the iconic secret agent.

With Amazon now at the helm, the decision regarding the next actor to portray Bond is forthcoming, although no timeline has been established for the release of the next film. Bookmakers have already listed James Norton, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Theo James among the top contenders. Following the announcement, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos reached out to fans on social media to gather opinions on potential replacements for Bond.

Broccoli & Wilson statement

In a joint statement, Broccoli and Wilson will retain co-ownership of the franchise but will cede creative authority to Amazon MGM Studios. Wilson, at 83, expressed his decision to step down from production to focus on artistic and charitable endeavours, noting, “It is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”

Broccoli, 64, shared her dedication to upholding the legacy established by her father, acknowledging the privilege of collaborating with several remarkable actors who have embodied Bond over the years. She indicated a desire to shift her focus to other projects after the conclusion of “No Time to Die” and Wilson’s retirement from production.

Cubby Broccoli, alongside co-producer Harry Saltzman, launched the iconic series, with Wilson joining as a producer for 1985’s “A View to a Kill.” Barbara took over her father’s role in 1995 with “GoldenEye,” and since then, she and Wilson have been instrumental in overseeing every Bond film through their Eon production company.

Their stronghold on the character has been praised, notably by Craig when he awarded them honorary Oscars, highlighting their unwavering commitment to maintaining the franchise’s integrity as it evolved into the 21st century.

The announcement marks a pivotal moment for 007. Originally, when Amazon acquired MGM in 2021, Broccoli and Wilson assured fans that they would retain creative oversight; however, they have now stepped back, potentially allowing for new directions and expansions within the franchise.

Mike Hopkins expresses enthusiasm

Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, expressed enthusiasm for continuing the franchise’s legacy, saying, “We are honoured to continue this treasured heritage and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007.” Last year, Amazon introduced the first spin-off series, “007: Road to a Million,” hosted by “Succession” star Brian Cox, which was a competition series featuring spy-themed challenges. However, the reception was lukewarm among fans and critics alike.

The recent deal sheds light on the prolonged silence regarding the 26th official Bond film. Given the lengthy production timelines for blockbuster films, there are concerns that the interval between “No Time to Die” and the next instalment may exceed the existing six-year record for the longest gap between Bond films.

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