Jeff Bezos’ Amazon has acquired creative control over the James Bond movie franchise.
Longtime producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli will stay on as co-owners but cede creative control to Amazon MGM Studios after staunchly defending it from advances. The former custodians will retain intellectual property rights.
“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, on Thursday.
Amazon bought MGM Studios in 2022, along with distribution rights to all Bond movies. However, until now, creative control remained in the hands of Wilson and Broccoli.
“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,” Wilson said in a statement. “Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”
Financial details have not yet been publicly disclosed, but the deal is likely to be closed sometime later this year.
“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,” Hopkins 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.”
“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,” Barbara Broccoli added.
“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.”
