Amazon Takes Creative Reins of James Bond Franchise

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — In a groundbreaking move, Amazon MGM Studios announced on February 20, 2025, that it will assume creative control of the iconic James Bond franchise. This decision comes with the stepping back of long-time producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, who have jointly maintained the legacy of 007 for nearly six decades.

Amazon’s acquisition of MGM in 2022 included rights to over 4,000 films and 17,000 TV shows, establishing it as the distributor of all Bond films. The recent joint venture formed among Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson, and Broccoli will allow Amazon MGM to lead future creative direction while all parties remain co-owners of the franchise.

“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. “We are grateful to the late Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman for bringing James Bond to movie theaters around the world, and to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unyielding dedication to the franchise that is cherished by legions of fans worldwide.”

Wilson expressed his feelings about stepping back, stating, “With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 incredible years, I am stepping back 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.”

Broccoli echoed these sentiments, emphasizing her lifelong dedication to expanding the franchise’s legacy. “I have had the honor of working closely with four 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, I feel it is time to focus on my other projects,” she noted.

The last entry in the franchise, “No Time to Die,” was released in 2021 and marked Daniel Craig’s final performance as Bond, grossing $775 million worldwide. Since its release, there has been widespread speculation regarding the timeline for the next installment of the franchise and a potential successor for Craig.

With Amazon MGM now steering the direction of future Bond films, the path forward for the beloved character remains uncertain, as the search for a new agent and future storylines begins anew. Craig’s tenure as Bond, which lasted from 2006 to 2021, includes five films, making him one of the longest-serving actors in the role.