MOVIE NEWS – While Daniel Craig honors the franchise’s past and its former producers, Jeff Bezos takes a very different approach—launching a social media poll to pick the next 007.

On February 20, 2025, a major shake-up hit the James Bond universe: Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the longtime producers behind the iconic spy franchise, officially stepped away from the series after failing to align creatively with Amazon MGM Studios on the future direction of 007.

This shift could mean a significant transformation for the franchise, possibly steering it toward a more interconnected cinematic and television universe in the style of Marvel. With speculation swirling about an expanded Bond universe featuring spin-offs and multiple projects, reactions from those closest to the franchise have been swift and passionate.

The Last James Bond Speaks Out

One of the most notable responses came from Daniel Craig, who played the legendary spy from Casino Royale (2006) through to his dramatic send-off in No Time to Die (2021). Speaking to Variety, Craig took the opportunity to express his deep appreciation for the former producers.

“My respect, admiration, and affection for Barbara and Michael remain constant and unwavering. I wish Michael a long, relaxing (and well-deserved) retirement, and as for whatever projects Barbara takes on, I know they will be spectacular, and I look forward to being a part of them.”

Michael G. Wilson, whose involvement with the Bond films dates back to Moonraker (1979) and who co-wrote multiple Bond scripts in the ’80s (For Your Eyes Only to License to Kill), confirmed his retirement.

“With a career in 007 spanning an incredible 60 years, I am stepping away from producing the James Bond films to focus on artistic and charitable projects.”

Jeff Bezos’ Bond Casting on X

As Broccoli herself reflected that “with Wilson’s retirement and the conclusion of No Time to Die, it’s time to focus on my other projects”, Jeff Bezos decided to take a different approach. The Amazon boss wasted no time in engaging with the public—turning to X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, to launch his own informal Bond casting poll.

Bezos kept it simple, posting just one question: “Who would you choose as the next Bond?” Unsurprisingly, the comments section exploded with responses, many of which were accompanied by images and gifs of Henry Cavill, as fans pushed for the former Superman to take on the role of 007.

At this rate, it seems James Bond wasn’t killed by Cary Fukunaga—but by Amazon Studios. Time will tell.

Source: Espinof