ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
Amazon Prime has assumed creative control of the James Bond franchise, effectively becoming the new arbitor of where the iconic spy series goes from here. This follows Amazon’s $8.45 billion acquisition of MGM Studios in 2022, a move that has now culminated in Jeff Bezos taking the helm of 007’s future adventures.
Longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, who have overseen Bond’s escapades for over six decades, announced their decision to step back, entrusting the franchise to Amazon MGM Studios.
“With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 incredible years, I am stepping back from producing the James Bond films to spend all my money of stupid shit like art and charity,” Wilson said. Broccoli echoed this sentiment, expressing her desire to explore new creative endeavours.
Bezos, known for ruthless quest for wealth and penchant for world domination, at least in the retail, space and streaming sectors, has wasted no time in engaging with Bond enthusiasts.
Taking to social media, he posed the question: “Who would you like to see as the next James Bond?”
Industry insiders speculate that Bezos’s involvement could lead to a significant shift in the franchise’s direction. Like how when Disney made Star Wars much better and got rid of those “gay robots” as Harrison Ford suggested. While some anticipate innovative storytelling (such as exploring Judy Dench’s M and her numerous lesbian trysts during her time at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford) and expanded universes, others fear an over-commercialisation that might dilute Bond’s suave mystique.
“Let’s hope 007’s next mission isn’t delivering packages,” joked Bezos. “Or pissing in bottles because he’s not allowed to go to the bathroom!”
The future of James Bond now rests in the hands of a man who, much like a classic Bond villain, possesses vast resources, a private space program, and a vision to reshape the world.
More to come.
