ALICE WRIGHT FOR DAILYMAIL.COM and REUTERS
Amazon will take distribution rights of the James Bond franchise under a new joint venture with long-time rights holders Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
The deal comes after Amazon bought MGM Studios in 2022 as a part of its media push. The acquisition gave Amazon distribution rights to the 007 franchise but not creative control.
‘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.’
Michael Wilson said ‘it is time’ for Amazon to take creative control over future productions.
‘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,’ he explained.
‘Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.’
Wilson and Broccoli were given creative control of the films by their late father producer Cubby Broccoli.
Together they have worked with four actors who have each brought their own unique take on the MI6 agent.
‘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,’ Broccoli added.
