Amazon MGM Studios Takes Over Creative Control Of The James Bond Franchise Following New Joint Venture With Longtime Producers Michael G. Wilson And Barbara Broccoli
In news that will surely send shock waves through the industry, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli are longtime producers of the James Bond franchise are stepping back in the creative process and handing over control to Amazon MGM Studios. The new venture was announced by the studio along with Wilson, and Broccoli today that they have formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights, and those parties will remain co-owners of the franchise. Under the terms of the new venture, Amazon MGM Studios will gain creative control of the James Bond franchise following closing of the transaction.
Since the most recent series starring Daniel Craig came to a close with the 2021 pic No Time To Die, the industry was wondering what next steps including who would follow Craig and play the iconic spy. Insiders add at this time since a deal has not officially closed that no decisions have been made on future Bond films including who will star, direct or write the next film.
“Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment,” said Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios. “We are grateful to the late Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman for bringing James Bond to movie theatres around the world, and to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unyielding dedication and their role in continuing the legacy of the franchise that is cherished by legions of fans worldwide. 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.”
In 2022, Amazon acquired MGM, including a vast catalog with more than 4,000 films and 17,000 TV shows. Since the MGM acquisition, Amazon has held rights to distribute all of the James Bond films, and as a result of this transaction will have creative control over future productions.
“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,” said Wilson.
This news is significant in the history of the iconic MI6 agent as for decades producers have gained significant leverage when it came of decisions regarding the franchise.
“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,” commented Broccoli.
