ꦿAmazon MGM Studios has acquired “creative control” of James Bond franchise, the Studios said on Thursday. It said that it had struck a deal with long-time producers and custodians of 007, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
Under this new joint venture, Michael and Barbara will remain co-owners, but Amazon MGM Studios will control the creative aspects of the 007 franchise. The Broccolis had earlier controlled everything from casting to marketing decisions, but now they won't have the grip. Earlier Amazon only had distribution rights to the iconic franchise.
What Amazon MCM Studios said in the statement
🐼As reported by The Guardian, Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios said, “Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment. 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 honoured to continue this treasured heritage, and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world''.
What Wilson and Broccoli said
Wilson, 83, said, “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.”
ജBroccoli, 64, added, “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 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.”
What Daniel Craig said
🏅Hollywood star Daniel Craig, who played James Bond, in a statement to the international media said, "My respect, admiration and love for Barbara and Michael remain constant and undiminished. I wish Michael a long, relaxing (and well-deserved) retirement and whatever ventures Barbara goes on to do, I know they will be spectacular, and I hope I can be part of them.”
For the unversed, Craig played the British spy in five of its blockbuster films of the spy franchise. His last appearance as Bond was in the 2021 release, No Time To Die.
