Amazon Takes Creative Control of Bond Franchise

Amazon MGM Studios has taken creative control of the James Bond franchise from longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, marking the end of an era for the series. This transition follows Amazon's acquisition of MGM for $8.5 billion in 2022, a significant portion of which was motivated by the potential of the 007 franchise. Broccoli and Wilson, who have been the custodians of Bond for decades, will remain co-owners of the franchise but will no longer have creative oversight. The decision was partly influenced by Wilson's retirement and Broccoli's desire to focus on other projects. This move has stirred mixed reactions, with some fans concerned about the franchise's future direction under Amazon, fearing it may follow a Marvel-like expansion model with numerous spin-offs. Amazon plans to expand the Bond universe, but no new actor has been chosen to replace Daniel Craig, who last played Bond in 2021's 'No Time to Die.'