Amazon has gained creative control over the James Bond franchise, but what does it mean for its future?
It has been revealed that producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli have stepped back and relinquished creative control.
On set with Daniel Craig—preparing for the stunts in QUANTUM OF SOLACE.#JamesBond #DanielCraig #QuantumOfSolace pic.twitter.com/0f8zGnNxGK
— James Bond (@007) February 12, 2025
Who owns James Bond now under the new deal?
Amazon, MGM Studios and producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli have, in their words, “formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights”.
The official Bond film franchise has been controlled by members of the Broccoli family, either single-handedly or in partnership with others, since the first 007 movie Dr No in 1962.
Movie studio MGM has had the rights over the Bond films for years, having a 50/50 ownership split with the Broccoli family.
On the deal, Broccoli said: “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.”
Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, added: “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.”
Who is Barbara Broccoli and the Broccoli family?
Barbara Broccoli is an American-British producer and has worked on the James Bond franchise since the age of 17.
Broccoli is the daughter of the James Bond producer Albert R "Cubby" Broccoli.
He, along with a partner, acquired the rights in 1961 to produce films based on Ian Fleming's acclaimed James Bond novels.
Despite the new deal, both will remain co-owners of the 60-year-old property.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Barbara Broccoli is an American film producer who has a net worth of $400 million, just above £315m.
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Who is going to be the next James Bond?
The future of the Bond film franchise has been hotly speculated since the revelation that Daniel Craig was stepping down after his, and the series’ last film, No Time To Die.
Many names have been thrown around in the media, including Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Henry Cavill, James Norton, and more.
However, the person set to fill the iconic role has not yet been confirmed, and perhaps now will not be for some time following the new deal with Amazon.
