Amazon CEO Andy Jassy on the Future of James Bond
In a recent TV interview, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy addressed the future of the iconic James Bond franchise, reassuring fans that the company will handle it with the utmost care. The discussion, initially focused on new AI features for Amazon’s Alexa, took a turn towards Hollywood’s favorite spy.
Jassy’s Vision for the Franchise
Jassy stated, “We don’t have a plan yet on what the next theme is going to be. We haven’t – nobody’s written the story yet. But we will take great care. It’s an amazing franchise that we care a lot about and that we expect to develop over a long period of time.” This statement comes after Amazon’s acquisition of MGM, which granted them full creative control over the James Bond series.
The deal with MGM, finalized last Friday, has stirred mixed emotions among fans and creatives. Many are concerned about the potential over-exploitation of the British super-spy. Jassy, however, attempted to ease these fears with a light-hearted quip about AI, saying, “First of all, I don’t believe that AI is going to write a Bond movie any time soon.” He further emphasized Amazon’s commitment, stating, “We are incredibly honored to have the ability to help shepherd the Bond franchise for the next generation. And we have amazing filmmakers that we have hired over time at MGM Amazon Studios.”
The Context of the Interview
The interview, conducted by CNBC, was primarily focused on AI, a major business objective for Amazon. However, the topic of James Bond surfaced amidst discussions about AI’s limitations in crafting high-end entertainment. CNBC anchor Jon Fortt remarked, “I do want to talk some more about that and AI, but first I want to touch on some other things, and actually first something that AI doesn’t yet do so well, which is craft high-end entertainment.” This led to Jassy’s comments on the James Bond franchise.
The Bond Legacy and Amazon’s Role
Since the release of “No Time to Die” in fall 2021, there has been a lull in new Bond films, coinciding with the character’s death in that installment. The previous stewards, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, have historically taken a conservative approach to the franchise. They once rejected the idea of a spinoff starring Halle Berry and emphasized keeping Bond as a theatrical proposition.
Jassy, who took over as CEO in 2021 after Jeff Bezos transitioned to executive chair, brings a wealth of experience from running Amazon’s revenue-producing web services division. His leadership now extends to guiding the future of the James Bond franchise.
For more insights into Amazon’s acquisition of MGM and its impact on the James Bond franchise, you can read Amazon MGM Studios Shelled Out An Extra $1 Billion-Plus To Take Control Of James Bond: What’s Next For The Franchise. Additionally, fans can voice their opinions on who should be the next 007 in Jeff Bezos Crowdsourcing Next James Bond? Amazon Chief Asks Fans Who Should Be 007.
Conclusion
Amazon’s acquisition of MGM and the subsequent control over the James Bond franchise marks a significant shift in the series’ future. Andy Jassy’s assurances of careful stewardship and long-term development are promising, yet the fan and creative communities remain cautiously optimistic. As Amazon navigates this new terrain, the legacy of James Bond hangs in the balance.
For more detailed coverage of this story, visit Deadline.
Further Reading and Discussion
- Explore the reactions of former Bond actor Timothy Dalton to Amazon’s deal in Timothy Dalton Laments Amazon’s “Sad” Deal To Take Creative Control Of James Bond.
- Join the conversation about the future of James Bond and share your thoughts on how Amazon should handle the franchise. Stay updated with the latest news and developments as they unfold.
