Amazon MGM Studios now has full control of the James Bond franchise. On the company’s blog, they announced that 007 would be the core of a new joint venture. Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli will maintain their co-ownership of the franchise. However, Amazon MGM Studios has creative control of the future of James Bond now.

Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios said in a statement, “Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment.”

James Bond over the years

He continued, “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.”

Amazon Gains Control of James Bond

Michael G Wilson addressed the move: “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,” said Wilson. “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,” Barbara added in her own statement. “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.”

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