The future of 007 under Amazon’s rule: Is this the end of Bond as we know it?
A new Bond actor? A confirmed release date? Sadly, the latest news from the Bond franchise does not make things any clearer. Amazon made a massive move by purchasing the 007 rights for a hefty price, setting the stage for a potential overhaul of the iconic franchise. This game-changing deal could reshape how we view James Bond moving forward. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest twist in the Bond saga.
Amazon Takes Control of 007
In a landmark acquisition, Amazon has now secured full control over the James Bond franchise by acquiring MGM, the legendary studio that holds the rights to 007. This move marks a new chapter in Bond’s history, as Amazon takes over the reins from the famed producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, who have long been central to Bond’s cinematic legacy.
Amazon originally overpaid for its purchase of MGM in a deal orchestrated by then-MGM board chair Kevin Ulrich. Though MGM was valued between $3.5 billion and $4 billion, Amazon acquired the studio for $8.5 billion, significantly overpaying to gain access to the 007 franchise. This hefty sum was seen as an investment in Bond’s future, but Amazon didn’t initially have full control. To gain unrestricted creative freedom, it took an additional $1 billion to secure the rights to fully steer and develop the Ian Fleming IP, allowing Amazon to make decisions without needing approval from Broccoli and Wilson.
New Directions for 007
Amazon’s full control over the Bond franchise opens the door for limitless expansion. With their strength in original content production, they can explore new directions like spin-offs and TV series centered around iconic characters like Moneypenny and Felix Leiter. These spin-offs would give fans a deeper look at the Bond universe, highlighting supporting characters.
Already, rumors have surfaced about potential spin-offs. One particularly intriguing rumor suggests that Florence Pugh could portray Miss Moneypenny in a spin-off titled The Moneypenny Diaries. The new James Bond is still to be found. At one point, Aaron Taylor-Johnson was such a strong favorite that bookmakers stopped taking bets. But now, the race is more open than ever. Depending on the bookmaker, you could turn $1 into $2 or even $9 if Jacob O'Connor becomes the next Bond.
Do you think Bond's future is in good hands with Amazon? Tell us in the comments!