Amazon doubles down on struggling video business with 007
Amazon is set to take creative control of the James Bond film franchise, after acquiring MGM Studios for $8.45 billion in 2021. The move marks a shift in the iconic series, which has long been produced by Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, heirs of original 007 producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli.
The James Bond franchise, which spans over 60 years, has earned nearly $8 billion worldwide. Amazon, which had already secured distribution rights after the MGM acquisition, will now oversee the franchise’s creative direction through its joint venture with Wilson and Broccoli. Despite stepping back from production, both producers will remain co-owners of the Bond IP.
“We are grateful to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unyielding dedication to the franchise,” said Mike Hopkins, head of Amazon’s Prime Video and MGM Studios. “We are honored to continue this treasured legacy and look forward to the next chapter of 007.”
The James Bond franchise, which spans over 60 years, has earned nearly $8 billion worldwide. Amazon, which had already secured distribution rights after the MGM acquisition, will now oversee the franchise’s creative direction through its joint venture with Wilson and Broccoli. Despite stepping back from production, both producers will remain co-owners of the Bond IP.
“We are grateful to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unyielding dedication to the franchise,” said Mike Hopkins, head of Amazon’s Prime Video and MGM Studios. “We are honored to continue this treasured legacy and look forward to the next chapter of 007.”
