The James Bond film franchise is entering a new chapter as longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson step away from creative control. The duo, who have overseen the 007 films for decades, will pass the reins to Amazon MGM Studios. The Broccoli family’s influence on Bond dates back to 1962 when Albert “Cubby” Broccoli launched the series. His daughter Barbara and stepson Wilson took over in the 1990s, shaping the modern era of the British spy.
Amazon Takes Control of James Bond’s Future
With the franchise now under Amazon MGM Studios, speculation is mounting over the future of James Bond, especially regarding the next actor to don the iconic tuxedo. Bookmakers have pegged James Norton, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Theo James as frontrunners. However, there’s no timeline for when the next film will be made. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos even joined the debate, asking fans on social media:
“Who’d you pick as the next Bond?”
A statement confirmed that while Broccoli and Wilson will remain co-owners, Amazon will now take full creative control of the franchise moving forward.
Wilson and Broccoli Reflect on Their Legacy
Michael G. Wilson, 83, expressed his gratitude for nearly six decades with James Bond, saying,
“With my 007 career spanning almost 60 years, I am stepping back from producing to focus on art and charitable projects.”
Barbara Broccoli, 64, also reflected on her journey, stating,
“My life has been dedicated to preserving and building on the incredible legacy passed down to Michael and me by our father. I have had the honor of working closely with four outstanding actors who played Bond and thousands of talented artists.”
With Wilson retiring from filmmaking, Broccoli has decided to shift her focus to other projects.
The Broccoli Legacy in James Bond History
Cubby Broccoli co-founded the James Bond franchise alongside Harry Saltzman, later bringing Wilson on board as a producer for A View to a Kill (1985). Barbara Broccoli joined Wilson in 1995, debuting as a producer with GoldenEye, and together they oversaw every Bond film since. Daniel Craig, who played James Bond from 2006 to 2021, praised their stewardship when presenting them with honorary Oscars, stating,
“Barbara and Michael have fiercely protected Bond’s legacy, ensuring he remained an icon in the 21st century.”
Now, for the first time in over 60 years, 007’s fate is in different hands.
