Overview

• Amazon MGM Studios assumed creative control of the James Bond franchise in early 2025, ending over six decades of Broccoli/Wilson stewardship.
• Denis Villeneuve was confirmed on June 25 as director of the 26th installment, pledging to honor the series’ traditions alongside fresh narrative directions.
• Casting has yet to be finalized, with insiders citing a shortlist of under-30 British actors—including Jacob Elordi, Tom Holland and Harris Dickinson—as leading contenders.
• A rule barring American actors from portraying James Bond remains in effect, underscoring ongoing debates about preserving the role’s British identity.
• Production is slated to culminate in a film release no earlier than 2028 as Amazon balances legacy theatrics with an expanded streaming strategy.