James Bond Producers Allegedly Turned Down Christopher Nolan, Who Ended Up Making Oppenheimer Instead

Following the surprising announcement that Amazon has assumed full creative control of the James Bond franchise, with long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson stepping aside, a new report details the next steps for 007—and reveals a surprising rejection of a high-profile director.

While speculation swirls about a potential Bond TV series, Variety reports that a new Bond film remains Amazon's top priority. Their first move will reportedly be to secure a new producer. David Heyman, known for his cohesive vision in guiding the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, is reportedly the type of producer Amazon is seeking.

The report also alleges that Christopher Nolan expressed interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet, but Broccoli, maintaining her then-unyielding control, refused, stating that no director would have final cut while she oversaw the franchise. Nolan subsequently directed Oppenheimer, a nearly $1 billion global box office success that garnered numerous accolades, including Best Picture and Best Director Oscars.

The question of the next Bond actor remains a hot topic. While Tom Hardy (Venom), Idris Elba (MCU), James McAvoy (Professor X), Michael Fassbender (Magneto), and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kraven)—previously rumored as a frontrunner—are all contenders, Henry Cavill (Superman, The Witcher) is the clear fan favorite.

According to Variety, Amazon is unable to make any Bond-related hires until the completion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected sometime this year. This news follows a report stating that the future of the James Bond franchise is currently "on pause" due to a reportedly tense stalemate between the Broccoli family and Amazon.

The conflict between Barbara Broccoli, who previously held creative control over the Bond franchise, and Amazon—which acquired the rights to distribute Bond films after purchasing Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in a $8.45 billion deal in 2021—has reportedly left the franchise in a standstill, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Amazon and Eon Productions have yet to comment publicly.