There’s a massive change to the intellectual property rights for the James Bond movie franchise, and that means a shakeup is happening within Amazon MGM Studios, who owns the distributor rights for the film, as well as longtime 007 producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
According to Variety, the three have “formed a new joint venture,” with all three remaining co-owners. However, Amazon will now have creative control over the future films. Michael and Barbara will be taking a step back.
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“Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment,” Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, said in a statement. “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. We are honored to continue this treasured heritage, and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world.”
Michael shared, “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. Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future”
“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 honor 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,” Barbara added.
Deadline adds “no decisions have been made on future Bond films including who will star, direct or write the next film. ”
This suggests that the choice for the next James Bond remains in Amazon’s hands. Find out who has been rumored to play the iconic spy.