Amazon MGM gains creative control of James Bond franchise

Photo from Amazon website

CULVER CITY – Amazon MGM Studios announced Thursday it has reached an agreement giving it creative control over the storied James Bond film franchise.

The studio formed a joint venture with longtime Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, under which they will remain co-owners of the film franchise, but Amazon MGM “will gain creative control.”

“Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment,” Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, said in a statement.

“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 honored to continue this treasured heritage, and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world.”

Wilson said he was “stepping back” from the franchise after 60 years “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,” Wilson said.

Broccoli said in a statement that her “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,” she said.

“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.”

Amazon acquired MGM in 2022, giving the company all distribution rights for the James Bond films.

The latest film in the series, “No Time to Die,” was released in 2021, and it marked the final appearance by Daniel Craig in the role of Bond.

There has been no word on who will take on the role next or when the next film will be released. “No Time to Die” was the 25th film in the franchise. (CNS)