Following the surprising news that Amazon has assumed full creative control of the James Bond franchise, with long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson stepping aside, a new report details the next steps—and reveals a surprising rejection of a high-profile director.
While there's speculation about a potential Bond TV series, Variety reports that a new Bond film remains Amazon's top priority. Their first move will reportedly be to find a new producer. David Heyman, known for his consistent vision on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, is apparently the type of producer Amazon is seeking.
Interestingly, the report claims Christopher Nolan expressed interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet, but Broccoli, maintaining her then-existing control, refused, stating no director would have final cut while she was in charge. Nolan subsequently directed Oppenheimer, a nearly $1 billion global box office hit that garnered numerous accolades, including Best Picture and Best Director Oscars.
The question of the next Bond actor remains a hot topic. While names like Tom Hardy (Venom), Idris Elba (MCU), James McAvoy (Professor X), Michael Fassbender (Magneto), and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kraven)—previously rumored as a frontrunner—are frequently mentioned, Henry Cavill (Superman, The Witcher) is the clear fan favorite.
According to Variety, Amazon is unable to make any casting decisions until the conclusion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected sometime this year. This follows reports of a tense stalemate between the Broccoli family and Amazon, leaving the future of the franchise temporarily uncertain.
The conflict stemmed from Barbara Broccoli's previous creative control over the Bond franchise, including casting decisions, and Amazon's acquisition of MGM (and therefore the Bond rights) in a $8.45 billion deal in 2021. The Wall Street Journal described the situation as an "ugly" standstill, leaving the Bond franchise "trapped."
Amazon and Eon Productions have yet to comment publicly.
