Amazon MGM Studios Takes Over Creative Control of James Bond Franchise
Amazon MGM Studios is set to take full creative control of the James Bond franchise under a new deal announced on Thursday. The agreement marks a major shift for the iconic spy series, as longtime producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli step back from overseeing future productions.
Wilson and Broccoli, who have been instrumental in shaping the Bond films for over six decades, will remain co-owners of the franchise. However, the new joint venture with Amazon MGM hands over creative decision-making and production control to the studio, a subsidiary of Jeff Bezos’ Amazon.
“James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment for over 60 years,” said Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios. “We are honoured to continue this treasured heritage and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world.”
Amazon acquired MGM in 2022 for $8.25 billion, gaining the rights to distribute all 27 James Bond films alongside a vast catalogue of over 4,000 movies and 17,000 TV shows. The Bond franchise remains MGM’s most lucrative intellectual property, generating billions in revenue since “Dr. No” debuted in 1962. The most recent instalment, No Time to Die, grossed over $770 million worldwide in 2021.
The deal fuels speculation that Amazon MGM Studios is preparing to announce the next Bond film, along with the actor who will succeed Daniel Craig. Craig stepped away from the role after No Time to Die, leaving the studio in search of the next 007. Bezos himself has already stirred excitement, asking fans on social media, “Who’d you pick as the next Bond?”
In statements following the announcement, Wilson and Broccoli expressed their desire to shift focus to other projects. “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,” said Barbara Broccoli. “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.”
The transition signals a new era for the Bond franchise, with Amazon MGM Studios now steering the direction of the beloved spy series.
