Amazon MGM Studios has taken creative control of the James Bond franchise as part of a joint venture with long-time series producers Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
Under the new agreement, Amazon MGM Studios will oversee all future productions of the James Bond films, including decisions on casting, scriptwriting, and production schedules.
The new agreement marks the first time in over 60 years that a member of the Broccoli family will not be directly involved in greenlighting a new Bond film.
“Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future,” Wilson said.
Wilson is stepping back from producing to focus on art and charitable projects, while Broccoli plans to focus on other projects.
“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,” 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.”
Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:AMZN) acquired MGM for $8.25 billion in 2022, which included distribution rights to all 27 Bond films.