The producers behind the Spider-Man and Harry Potter film franchises will oversee the next James Bond movie, Amazon MGM Studios announced Tuesday
The appointment of Amy Pascal and David Heyman is the first step in Amazon’s plan to relaunch the British spy franchise, after taking full creative control last month.
The producers are expected to play a major role in deciding who will replace actor Daniel Craig as the super-suave MI6 agent, as well as choosing the next film’s director and production schedule.
Amazon MGM Studios film chief Courtenay Valenti said the pair would “deliver to global audiences storytelling that upholds the impeccable legacy of this beloved character.”
Pascal, who previously ran major Hollywood studio Sony Pictures, is best-known for her work on various Spider-Man films, including the recent live-action movies starring Tom Holland. She is no stranger to the Bond franchise. During her tenure, Sony Pictures released 007 films Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, and Skyfall.
Heyman, who is British, produced all eight film adaptations of J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter books. His other credits include Gravity, Barbie, and the Paddington films.
The announcement will only fuel the swirling speculation about who will next play James Bond, one of the most famous characters in the history of cinema.
Craig’s final Bond film, No Time to Die, was released in 2021 and earned $775 million. Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Henry Cavill, and Theo James are among the frontrunners to take over the role.
Amazon acquired MGM in 2022 but secured full creative control of the franchise only last month after a deal with longtime producers Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli. The Broccoli family, who had closely guarded the series since 1962’s Dr. No, resisted spin-offs and licensing — limits industry watchers expect to change under Amazon.
“James Bond is one of the most iconic characters in the history of cinema,” Pascal and Heyman said, adding they are honored to continue the legacy.