James Bond fans have been given a long-awaited update on the franchise – but we’re still in the dark as to who will be the next 007.
Having initially been slated for release in April 2020, No Time To Die was delayed by the pandemic and Daniel Craig’s final outing as Bond eventually arrived in cinemas in October 2021.
With speculation rife over who would be stepping into his shoes, Amazon made a controversial purchase of MGM Studios in January last year, taking control of the much-loved franchise.
Amazon MGM Studios’ head of film Courtenay Valenti has now offered an update on what’s going on behind the scenes, telling attendees at CinemaCon in Las Vegas on Wednesday: “Now, I know you’re all wondering when we’re going to announce who’s playing James Bond.
“Please know that we’re taking the time to do this with care and deep respect. It is the dream of a lifetime for all of us to bring audiences this next chapter, and it’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly.”
While Amazon MGM is yet to find – or announce, at least – the leading star, it has secured Dune director Denis Villeneuve to helm the next Bond film, while Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight is on writing duties.
The pair will work with powerhouse producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman – whose credits include the Spider-Man franchise and Harry Potter films, respectively – and executive producer Tanya Lapointe, Villeneuve’s Dune collaborator and wife.
Valenti continued: “What I can tell you is this: when you pair one of the most beloved franchises in history with a world-class filmmaking team [...] you’re setting the stage for something that’s truly worthy of the Bond legacy. That film is coming, and when the time is right, we’ll have much more to share.”
It’s expected that the wait for the next Bond film will stretch to seven years, as it is widely slated to go into production in 2027 ahead of a 2028 release date.
Over the years, everyone from Bridgerton star Regé-Jean Page to Aaron Taylor-Johnson has been rumoured to be in the running to be the next 007. Some of the names recently linked to the role include Wuthering Heights star Jacob Elordi, Fantastic Beasts actor Callum Turner and Spider-Man favourite Tom Holland.
There is, of course, every chance Amazon MGM Studios could go in a different direction – and one famous director has even thrown Sydney Sweeney’s name into the ring.
