James Bond Latest: Amazon take control of 007 as producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson step back

Barbara Broccoli and her half brother Michael G. Wilson have had full artistic say over 007 since 1995, when their father Cubby Broccoli handed them control of Eon Productions, founded in July 1961 to raise financing for first Bond film Dr. No.

But this week the duo announced a deal that will see Amazon MGM Studios take “full creative control”.

Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson and Broccoli say they have “formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights, and those parties will remain co-owners of the franchise.”

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. With the conclusion of No Time to Die and Michael retiring from the films, I feel it is time to focus on my other projects.”

Wilson added: “With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 incredible years, 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.”

Speculation has been rife as to who will take over the role of James Bond, with The Crown actor Josh O’Connor the current bookies’ favourite, closely followed by James Norton and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.

And Oscar and Turner Prize-winner Steve McQueen had been tipped to direct the keenly-anticipated new film.

But now all bets are off, with Broccoli no longer hand-picking who will succeed Daniel Craig or the next person responsible for the next chapter of the iconic character’s story.

Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, said: “We are grateful to the late Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman for bringing James Bond to movie theatres around the world, and to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unyielding dedication and their role in continuing the legacy of the franchise that is cherished by legions of fans worldwide. We are honoured to continue this treasured heritage, and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world.”