An announcement has been made confirming that Amazon MGM Studios will now take full creative control of the James Bond franchise.

The Bond films were launched by Albert “Cubby” Broccoli in 1962, before his daughter Barbara Broccoli and stepson Michael G Wilson eventually took over production of the legendary 007 movies, but they have now agreed to step down. 

The new deal comes after mounting speculation about the fate of the famous British spy, four years after his last outing in No Time to Die, which was also Daniel Craig’s final appearance in the role.

As well as deciding which direction to take the franchise, it is vital that Amazon find a replacement actor and that in itself could be controversial.

Broccoli had previously said Bond could be of any race, but insisted that he would have to remain male, but with her departure that guarantee may no longer stand.

That said, her approach was widely regarded as being the only truly sensible one and consequently it is thought that Amazon will not be looking to be too radical in its selection – for now at least.

Safe pair of hands

Throughout her lengthy tenure, Ms Broccoli has been seen as a safe pair of hands for the much-loved brand and someone who could be relied upon to protect all the favourite traditions of the original character.

Now however, things might be about to change, as Amazon will presumably be looking to maximize profits through both the brand and the film franchise.

There had been rumours that they had been impatient for a return on their investment after becoming partners several years ago and tensions were said to have developed.

Moving in a different direction?

It seems that Broccoli and Wilson have decided they are ready to relinquish their stewardship and allow Amazon to take Bond forward.

A repositioning could see them try to take the franchise in a direction that appeals more to a younger audience, as well as an American market, which has never fully bought into the Bond character.

Some believe he belongs in a different era and it may be time to completely reinvent the role to keep him relevant, but others will argue that too much change could spell the end and Amazon will be aware that the brand is capable of making huge sums of cash just as it is, so any tampering would be a risky step.

Step forward the supporting cast?

Given how much time it takes to make a blockbuster movie, the gap between the last Bond movie No Time To Die and the next instalment, could break the six-year record for the longest period between the super spy releases.

They may look to go down the spin-off route and use the villains and other long-standing characters of the films in their own storylines. The likes of Jaws, Odd-Job, M and Q could, for totally different reasons, prove incredibly popular with movie fans. 

Built on a legacy

The 64-year-old Broccoli said: “My life has been dedicated to maintaining and building upon the extraordinary legacy that was handed to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli.

“I have had the honour of working closely with four of the tremendously talented actors who have played 007 and thousands of wonderful artists within the industry.”

Time for change

Wilson, pointed to a 007 career spanning nearly 60 years, which the 83-year-old called “incredible” before adding: “I am stepping back from producing the James Bond films to focus on art and charitable projects.

“Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”

Tribute

The outgoing Bond, Daniel Craig, expressed his “undiminished” support for long-time producers Broccoli and Wilson.

He remarked: “Over the years many people and organisations have tried to put their own footprint on Bond, but I can’t tell you how much I admire your integrity in holding on to your singular vision as you brought the character into the 21st Century, with a passionate and a protective determination to honour the heart of this franchise.”