Daniel Craig Responds to Amazon Takeover of James Bond Franchise

Bang Showbiz | Los Angeles
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Daniel Craig’s “respect, admiration, and love” for outgoing James Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli remains “constant and undiminished,” following the confirmation that Amazon MGM Studios is taking creative control of the franchise.

The 56-year-old actor, who played 007 in five films, including Bond’s most recent outing, 2021’s No Time to Die, which marked his final appearance as the iconic spy, expressed his gratitude towards the producers.

Daniel has now wished Michael a “long, relaxing retirement” and admitted that he “hopes” to be part of some of Barbara’s future projects.

He told Variety: “My respect, admiration, and love for Barbara and Michael remain constant and undiminished. After nearly 60 incredible years, I am stepping back from producing the James Bond films to focus on art and charitable projects. I have had the honor of working closely with four of the tremendously talented actors who have played 007 and thousands of wonderful artists within the industry. 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.”

Daniel’s comments come after Michael and Barbara made a surprise announcement on Thursday that they are stepping back from the film series. However, they have formed a new joint venture with the studio to house James Bond’s intellectual property rights, with all three parties remaining co-owners of the franchise.

Michael stated in a press release: “With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 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.”

Barbara 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. 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.”

The studio expressed that they are “honoured” to be taking creative control of the beloved franchise.