Broccoli family hands creative control over James Bond franchise to Amazon MGM
Former James Bond Pierce Brosnan wants a female 007
Pierce Brosnan has joined the chorus of those who want a woman to play Bond.
NEW YORK - Amazon MGM announced Thursday that the studio has taken the creative reins of the James Bond franchise after decades of family control.
Longtime Bond custodians Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson said they would be stepping back.
Amazon MGM now has creative control over James Bond franchise
What we know:
Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson and Broccoli formed a new joint venture in which they will co-own the 007 intellectual property rights — but Amazon MGM will have the creative control.
The announcement means that, for the first time in more than half a century of Bond, the Broccoli family won't be greenlighting the next James Bond film. Amazon MGM also anticipates expanding the franchise beyond movies.
Daniel Craig attends a special event hosted by Omega to celebrate 60 years of James Bond on November 23, 2022 in London, England. (Credit: Mike Marsland/Getty Images for Omega)
What we don't know:
Financial terms and an exact date weren’t disclosed. The deal is expected to close sometime this year.
What they're saying:
"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," Wilson said in a statement. "Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future."
Amazon bought MGM in 2022
The backstory:
Amazon bought MGM Studios in 2022 for $6.1 billion, a purchase that was significantly motivated by the acquisition of one of the movies' most beloved and long-running franchises.
EARLIER: Amazon buying MGM with hopes of filling Prime video streaming service
Buying MGM gave Amazon’s streaming service Prime Video access to more films, shows and famous characters, including Rocky, RoboCop and Pink Panther.