James Bond: Amazon gains full creative control of 007 franchise
Barbara Broccoli and Michael G.Wilson have handed over the reins to the corporate giant
By Nick Reilly
James Bond is now under the complete creative control of Amazon, after the company announced it has taken the reigns of the spy franchise from the Broccoli empire.
Amazon MGM Studios has struck a deal with Michael G.Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, who previously took over from producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli, the man who oversaw the beginnings of the legendary film series.
The new deal means that Amazon could potentially open the doors for numerous Bond spin-offs, as well as the start of production on an anticipated Bond film with a new face starring as 007.
“Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment,” said Mike Hopkins, the head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios.
Broccoli and Wilson will “remain co-owners of the franchise,” though it will be Amazon in charge of creative decisions and the two parties have formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights.
Wilson, 83, said: “With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 incredible years, I am stepping back from producing the James Bond films to focus on art and charitable projects.
“Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”
Broccoli, 64, added: “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 honour 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.”
Details on a new Bond film, the first since 2021’s No Time To Die are yet to emerge. In December last year, press reports suggested that the relationship between the Broccolis and Amazon had hit a brick wall – with the Wall Street Journal claiming that Broccoli had privately described Amazon as “idiots”.
Details of the deal have not been disclosed.