Entertainment reporter Steven McIntosh from Getty Images reported that the closing credits of the most recent film in the 007 series, 2021’s No Time To Die, ended with the familiar message: “James Bond will return.” However, uncertainty has surrounded the franchise in recent years, particularly after Amazon purchased the series’ parent company MGM. On Thursday, Amazon announced a new deal that would see longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson step back, allowing Jeff Bezos’ company to take full creative control.
Fans have had mixed reactions to the news, with some feeling nostalgic for Broccoli and Wilson’s stewardship of the franchise, while others are hopeful for new and exciting developments under Amazon’s leadership. The potential for character origin stories and spin-off products, similar to other successful film franchises, has been discussed, with the hope that any extensions will be of high quality and not dilute the brand.
The decision of who will replace Daniel Craig as James Bond remains a hot topic, with speculation about potential changes to the character’s identity now that Amazon is in control. While some worry about the shift in ownership to an American company and the potential impact on British cinema, others are hopeful for fresh and innovative approaches to the beloved franchise. The timeline for new Bond products under Amazon’s control remains uncertain.