Former 007 Actor Timothy Dalton Laments Amazon MGM's Takeover of James Bond Franchise

Timothy Dalton as James Bond
Credit: Eon Productions | Fair use for promotional purposes

Timothy Dalton as James Bond
Credit: Eon Productions | Fair use for promotional purposes

Timothy Dalton recently weighed on the news that Amazon MGM has taken over the creative control of the James Bond franchise.

Last week, we learned the shocking bombshell announcement that producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have ceded creative control of the James Bond franchise to Amazon MGM Studios, prompting a divisive reaction among the 007 fandom.

Timothy Dalton Reveals He's 'Sad' About Amazon MGM's Takeover of James Bond

Timothy Dalton as James Bond in The Living Daylights
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Credit: Eon Productions | Fair use for promotional purposes

In a recent interview, Dalton discussed his thoughts on the news that Amazon MGM Studios has taken over the creative control of the James Bond franchise.

As most fans know, he notably played the iconic spy character in two films in the late '80s: The Living Daylights and Licence to Kill.

"I think it’s sad as well. Barbara is one of the best women in the whole world. I think she’s fantastic," the actor said.

"Around a Bond movie, everyone’s got an opinion. That tends to make something less special, but if you keep it to people who know what they’re doing and know what they want, then it will sharpen up and be good. Barbara had that."

Dalton continued, "I have no idea what Amazon would do with it, and I have no idea what the relationship of Amazon to the Broccolis will be. But it is a damn fine series of movies. I was watching it when I was young, we all were. It’s been part of our lives, so anything that threatens it is kind of sad."

The actor also expressed concern that the franchise might lose its British character because an American corporation will own it.

"I would agree with that. It is one of the few wonderful stories we’ve got in film that is British. The leading character is British. We can call it our own," Dalton said.

Amazon MGM's Plans for James Bond Franchise

So far, Amazon MGM Studios has not shared their plans for the James Bond franchise as the deal is still being finalized.

Once they start developing the next 007 movie, fans will look forward to seeing who they'll cast to play the iconic spy and who will direct the project.

Dalton shared the sentiments of most fans that a British actor should be cast to play 007 in the next movie.

"Yes. Yes. Because that’s where it was born, that’s what the stories are. Definitely. One hundred per cent," he said.

For now, fans should expect news and updates regarding the future of the James Bond franchise in the coming months.

What do you think of Dalton's remarks regarding Amazon MGM taking over the 007 franchise? Let us know in the comments!

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