“He’s a fantastic filmmaker” — Legendary producer steps back as new era begins
Barbara Broccoli has given her full blessing to Denis Villeneuve as the next creative force behind the iconic James Bond franchise. Speaking on the Kermode on Film podcast, the longtime Bond producer called Villeneuve “a fantastic filmmaker” and said she’s “thrilled” that he’s taking the helm of the next 007 installment.
The 65-year-old film executive, who has co-led the Bond franchise for over four decades alongside Michael G. Wilson, has officially stepped away from the franchise, handing creative control over to Amazon MGM Studios. In their place, producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman will steer the upcoming Bond chapter, with Villeneuve directing.
“I did it for 44 years and loved every minute of it,” Broccoli reflected. “But I’m getting up there now and there’s a lot of things I want to do … like this beautiful musical [Sing Street]. I have other movies I want to make and other stage shows.”
Denis Villeneuve: “Bond is Sacred Territory”
The 57-year-old Dune and Blade Runner 2049 director brings both passion and pedigree to the 007 universe. A self-proclaimed “die-hard Bond fan,” Villeneuve spoke about the deep connection he feels to the franchise:
“Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery,” he said.
“To me, Bond is sacred territory. I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also incredibly exciting and a huge honour.”
He also thanked Amazon MGM Studios for trusting him with the project.
Sydney Sweeney Tipped as Next Bond Girl
One major casting rumor already generating buzz is the potential involvement of Sydney Sweeney, the 27-year-old star of Euphoria and The White Lotus. Insiders say Villeneuve is eyeing her for the role of Bond’s next leading lady.
“Sydney is the top name on the casting sheet,” a source told The Sun on Sunday. “Denis believes she’s hugely talented and has an appeal to younger generations, which is vital for modernising the franchise.”
Reportedly, Sweeney and Villeneuve have already spent time together, with the director impressed by her meteoric rise and physicality — a must-have quality for today’s action-packed Bond films.
“She’s athletic and can handle physical scenes,” the source said, “while also fitting perfectly into the legacy of the classic Bond girl — stylish, bold, and unforgettable.”
