James Bond star Daniel Craig has shared his response to the franchise's shocking new development.
Earlier this week, long-time Bond producers Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli announced they will no longer have creative control over future projects, with the pair instead handing the reigns over to Amazon MGM Studios in a new joint venture to house the franchise's intellectual property rights.
Craig, whose stint as 007 came to an end in 2021 after five films and 15 years, has now addressed the news, sharing his "respect" for Wilson and Broccoli.
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"My respect, admiration and love for Barbara and Michael remain constant and undiminished," he said in a statement (via Variety).
"I wish Michael a long, relaxing (and well-deserved) retirement and whatever ventures Barbara goes on to do, I know they will be spectacular and I hope I can be part of them."
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Amazon has held the rights to distribute James Bond movies since 2022 when the company acquired MGM, though Wilson and Broccoli had retained creative control until this new venture. The pair will, however, remain co-owners of the franchise.
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"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," said Wilson.
"Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future."
Broccoli added: "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."
Social Executive, Entertainment Portfolio After completing her joint honours degree in Journalism and English Literature at Cardiff University, Iona joined Digital Spy as a Content Production Intern in 2022, where she wrote across both news and features, specialising in TV and movies. Following her internship, Iona continued contributing to the site as a freelance reporter, becoming social executive for the Hearst UK entertainment portfolio in summer 2025. Iona now leads the DS social channels, covering red carpets with stars such as Paul Mescal, Austin Butler, and more.
