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In a groundbreaking departure for the iconic James Bond franchise, Amazon MGM Studios is now creatively in control, marking the end of an era that was shaped by producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. The move follows the creation of a new partnership under which the producers and Amazon MGM Studios will equally share the James Bond intellectual property rights. The producers, however, will now be advised in their creative work by Amazon on upcoming 007 productions.
Michael G. Wilson, whose run with James Bond has lasted nearly six decades, revealed he is retiring from producing to spend more time on art and charity work. Barbara Broccoli, who has overseen the franchise along with her half-brother, said she was keen on working on other projects. The decision marks a milestone, as the Broccoli family’s guardianship has been the very essence of James Bond since Albert R. “Cubby” Broccoli co-founded Eon Productions in 1961.
The collaboration between Amazon and the producers of the Bond franchise follows Amazon’s acquisition of MGM for $8.5 billion in 2022, and as part of the deal came the rights to distribute James Bond films. While there were early indications of tension between the producers and Amazon—following disputes over visions for the future of the franchise—this latest joint venture indicates a collaborative approach. Amazon Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios boss Mike Hopkins expressed his gratitude to the Broccoli family for their commitment and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to honor the legacy of James Bond but to also pave the way to its future. The transition has raised questions about the future of the franchise, especially regarding the casting of the next James Bond following Daniel Craig’s departure after “No Time to Die” in 2021. Even Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has asked for public opinion on the matter, requesting fans on social media who they would cast as the next 007.
While future plans for James Bond films have not been announced, the shift in creative stewardship opens the door to franchise extensions, including possible TV spin-offs for Amazon’s Prime Video platform. The move stays in step with industry trends of building large universes around popular characters and stories.
As Amazon MGM Studios embarks on this new journey, the global fanbase is eagerly anticipating how the marriage of Amazon’s visionary thinking and the franchise’s storied history will revolutionize the legacy of the world’s greatest spy.
