NEW YORK (AP) — In a James Bond shakeup that stirred the movie trade, Amazon MGM introduced Thursday that the studio has taken the inventive reins of the 007 franchise after many years of household management. Longtime Bond custodians Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli mentioned they might be stepping again.
Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson and Broccoli fashioned a brand new three way partnership during which they’ll co-own James Bond mental property rights — however Amazon MGM could have inventive management.
Monetary phrases weren’t disclosed. The deal is predicted to shut someday this 12 months.
“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 mentioned in a press release. “Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”
Amazon purchased MGM Studios in 2022 for $6.5 billion, a purchase order that was considerably motivated by the acquisition of one of many films’ most beloved and long-running franchises. For the reason that Daniel Craig period of 007 concluded with 2021’s “No Time to Die,” Broccoli and Wilson have reportedly clashed with Amazon MGM over the path of Bond.
The announcement Thursday implies that for the primary time within the greater than 50-year historical past of Bond, a Broccoli will not be greenlighting a brand new James Bond movie. Amazon MGM additionally anticipates increasing the franchise past films.
“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,” mentioned Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios. “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.”
