Amazon MGM to assume creative control over the James Bond franchise.

      An era has come to a close as longtime James Bond 007 producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli are stepping down from their producing positions, allowing Amazon MGM to take creative control of future entries in the beloved and enduring franchise centered around the world's most famous superspy.

      The 007 franchise has been overseen by the Broccoli family since the inaugural film, 1962's Dr. No, which was produced by Albert R. “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Saltzman under Eon Productions. In 1995, with the release of GoldenEye, Cubby Broccoli passed control of Eon to his children, Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, who guided the franchise through the eras of both Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig as James Bond.

      When Amazon acquired MGM in 2022, they obtained the distribution rights for all previous and forthcoming Bond films, while Broccoli and Wilson continued to hold the creative control that their family has maintained for over six decades. Following the release of Craig’s final film, No Time to Die, in 2021, speculation arose about the next actor to take on the role of James Bond as the producing duo considered the future direction of the franchise in collaboration with Amazon. However, it seems both producers are now ready to step back after decades of involvement with the character.

      “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. Consequently, Barbara and I have agreed that it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to take James Bond into the future,” stated Wilson.

      “My life has been devoted to preserving and enhancing the remarkable legacy entrusted to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli. It has been a privilege to work closely with four incredibly talented actors who have portrayed 007 as well as with thousands of wonderful artists across the industry. With the release of No Time to Die and Michael's retirement from the films, I believe it’s time to focus on my other endeavors,” Broccoli commented.

      “Since his debut in theaters over 60 years ago, James Bond has become one of the most iconic figures in cinematic history,” said Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios. “We extend our gratitude to the late Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman for bringing James Bond to screens worldwide, and to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unwavering commitment and their role in upholding the legacy of the franchise that has a devoted fanbase around the globe. We are honored to continue this cherished tradition and look forward to initiating the next chapter of the legendary 007 for audiences everywhere.”

      This news is quite unexpected and marks a significant shift for the franchise, as creative control is being transferred for the first time in the character's extensive history. Only time will reveal how Amazon MGM will approach the next James Bond film or if they will venture into television, spin-offs, and other media formats.

      What are your thoughts on this development? Do you believe that Amazon MGM taking creative control will be beneficial, or does the departure of Broccoli and Wilson signal the end of the James Bond we have known? Share your opinions on our social media channels at @FlickeringMyth…

      Ricky Church – Follow me on Bluesky for more movie news and discussions.