Additional Coverage:
- Jeff Bezos asks ‘who’d you pick as the next Bond’ after Amazon takes control of franchise (businessinsider.com)
Amazon MGM Studios has seized the creative reins of the James Bond franchise. Longtime producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli will be stepping back from decision-making roles.
Amazon acquired MGM, which owned the Bond franchise rights, in 2022. Jeff Bezos, Amazon founder, wasted no time stirring up excitement, posting on social media shortly after the announcement, asking followers who they’d pick for the next Bond.
It’s been four years since the last Bond film, and the role remains uncast.
Wilson explained his departure, stating his long career and desire to focus on other endeavors. He and Broccoli agreed it was time for Amazon MGM Studios to guide the franchise forward. Broccoli echoed this sentiment, mentioning her other projects.
A joint venture was formed between Amazon, Wilson, and Broccoli to house the Bond intellectual property. While all remain co-owners, Amazon MGM will have creative control.
Although Amazon acquired MGM for $6.5 billion, granting them release rights, they previously lacked creative control. That power resided with Broccoli, daughter of the original Bond producer, Albert “Cubby” Broccoli.
The transition hasn’t been entirely smooth. Reports surfaced of disagreements between Broccoli and Amazon regarding the franchise’s future after Daniel Craig’s departure.
Broccoli reportedly resisted spin-off ideas and took exception to corporate terminology used by Amazon executives.
The last Bond film, “No Time to Die,” was a box-office success, earning over $774 million worldwide.