James Bond’s next chapter might be his boldest yet — and it starts with two of Hollywood’s most influential producers stepping into the 007 universe. David Heyman and Amy Pascal are in talks to produce the next installment in the Bond franchise for Amazon/MGM.
Rumors of Heyman’s involvement first surfaced last week via The InSneider, and now it appears the conversations have grown more serious. While no official deal has been signed, the arrangement hinges on the completion of Barbara Broccoli’s $1 billion rights sale of the Bond franchise to Amazon — a deal reportedly bogged down in extensive legal paperwork.
Heyman, best known for his work on the Harry Potter films, has a busy slate this year, with Noah Baumbach’s Jay Kelly, Taika Waititi’s Klara and the Sun, and Andrew Patterson’s Rivals of Amziah King all set for release. Aside from those, his only confirmed future project is Wonka 2, expected to begin filming next year.
Pascal, meanwhile, is coming off the success of the Tom Holland-led Spider-Man trilogy and is currently producing Greta Gerwig’s upcoming adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia. Her filmography includes a long list of director-driven projects such as Aaron Sorkin’s Molly’s Game, Greta Gerwig’s Little Women, Steven Spielberg’s The Post, and Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers. However, she’s also known for the 2016 all-female Ghostbusters reboot, which received a mixed reception.
One particularly intriguing detail fueling speculation is whether Heyman might bring in his longtime collaborator — an Oscar-winning Alfonso Cuarón— to direct the new Bond. The two have worked together on several major films, and the idea of adding an artful, prestige-driven touch to the franchise has fans buzzing. Others suggest the producers may hold out until 2027, when Christopher Nolan could potentially be free to direct. However, sources suggest Amazon wants to fast-track development, rather than wait.
With blockbuster veterans potentially behind the wheel — and whispers of a celebrated director circling the project — the Bond franchise may be headed into a bold new era. One thing’s clear: this isn’t just another sequel.
