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

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

While speculation abounds about a potential Bond TV series, Variety reports that a new Bond film remains Amazon's top priority. Their immediate focus is reportedly securing a new producer. David Heyman, known for his cohesive vision guiding the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, is apparently the type of producer Amazon seeks.

The report also claims that Christopher Nolan expressed interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet, but Broccoli, maintaining her then-existing control, refused, stating that no director would have final cut approval under her leadership. 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 is generating significant fan interest. While names like Tom Hardy (Venom), Idris Elba (MCU), James McAvoy (Professor X), Michael Fassbender (Magneto), and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kraven)—previously rumored as a frontrunner—are frequently mentioned, Henry Cavill (Superman, The Witcher) is the clear fan favorite.

According to Variety, Amazon is prevented from making any Bond-related hires until the completion of its deal with Broccoli and Wilson, expected sometime this year. This news follows a report alleging the James Bond franchise is currently "on pause" due to a reportedly contentious stalemate between the Broccoli family and Amazon.

The conflict reportedly stemmed from Barbara Broccoli's retention of creative control over the Bond franchise, including casting decisions, and Amazon's acquisition of the rights to release Bond films following its $8.45 billion purchase of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in 2021. This power struggle, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, left the future of Bond "trapped."

Amazon and Eon Productions have yet to comment publicly.