Barbara Broccoli’s long-standing conflict with Amazon has significantly affected the production of new James Bond films since the e-commerce giant’s acquisition of MGM in 2021. However, recent developments indicate that both parties are moving past their differences to initiate the next chapter of 007.
Today, Amazon MGM, along with Broccoli and fellow Bond producer Michael G. Wilson, announced the establishment of a new joint venture that will grant the studio full creative control over the Bond movie franchise. Once the deal is finalized, Broccoli and Wilson, who are half-siblings, will continue as co-owners of the franchise alongside Amazon MGM. In a statement regarding this deal, both producers expressed their intention to step back and focus on other projects after dedicating most of their lives to the Bond series.
“My life has been dedicated to maintaining and building upon the extraordinary legacy handed to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli,” Broccoli stated. “With the conclusion of No Time to Die and Michael’s retirement from the films, I feel it is time to focus on my other projects.” Wilson echoed his sister’s sentiments, emphasizing their trust in Amazon MGM to “lead James Bond into the future.”
Previously, Broccoli, known for making Bond-related decisions based on her instincts, had openly criticized Amazon’s approach, fearing it could jeopardize the franchise due to its algorithmically-driven model for developing entertainment content. Following the recent announcement, Amazon chairman Jeff Bezos took to his X account to ask his followers who the next Bond should be.
According to a Wall Street Journal report from last December, Broccoli had previously described Amazon’s development executives as a group of “f— idiots.” Her concerns seemed validated by the absence of a new Bond film since the release of No Time To Die in 2021. It remains uncertain what prompted Broccoli and Wilson to reconsider their stance on allowing Amazon MGM to steer the Bond franchise. However, with this newfound partnership, fans can expect updates on the iconic character soon.
