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Thursday 09/04/2026

Steven Knight to Pen Next James Bond Film, Directed by Denis Villeneuve

Steven Knight and Denis Villeneuve collaborating on James Bond
Daniel RiveraDaniel Rivera

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders, has been confirmed as the writer for the next James Bond film, directed by Denis Villeneuve.
  • The film is in development under Amazon MGM Studios, following the departure of long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson.
  • Knight expressed excitement about the project, aiming to create a Bond film that is "better, stronger, and bolder."
  • The casting for the new James Bond remains undecided, with speculation around actors like Aaron Taylor-Johnson and James Norton.
  • The film is expected to be released in 2028, with Amazon MGM having acquired the franchise rights in a $1 billion deal.

Steven Knight, the acclaimed creator of Peaky Blinders, has been selected to write the script for the upcoming James Bond film, Amazon MGM Studios announced. The film will be directed by Denis Villeneuve, known for his work on Dune, and marks a new chapter for the iconic franchise following the departure of long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson earlier this year.

Knight, who has long admired the Bond series, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. "It has always been on my bucket list and it's fantastic to be invited to do it," he told BBC Radio 5 Live. "I’m hoping that, being a Bond fan for so many years, it will be imbued into me and I will be able to produce something that’s the same but different, and better, stronger and bolder."

Casting Speculations and Production Details

While the script is underway, the question of who will step into the shoes of 007 remains unanswered. Daniel Craig's departure in 2021 left a void that has fueled speculation, with British actors Aaron Taylor-Johnson and James Norton among the rumored contenders. Knight, however, remained tight-lipped about casting decisions, stating, "That is a very, very good question, and one I can't give you the answer to."

The film is being produced by Amy Pascal and David Heyman, with a potential release date in 2028. This follows Amazon MGM's acquisition of the Bond franchise rights in a reported $1 billion deal, granting them creative control over the series' future.

A New Era for James Bond

The upcoming film will be the 26th in the series, following the success of No Time to Die, which grossed over $774 million worldwide. Villeneuve, who is currently working on the third installment of Dune, expressed his commitment to honoring the Bond legacy while paving the way for new adventures. "This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honor," he stated.

Knight's involvement brings a fresh perspective to the franchise, with his diverse portfolio including the BAFTA-winning Peaky Blinders and the Oscar-nominated Dirty Pretty Things. His upcoming projects, such as The Immortal Man, continue to showcase his cinematic vision.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the new James Bond film progresses, the choice of actor to portray 007 will be pivotal in shaping the franchise's future. The decision will likely influence the film's reception and box office performance, given the global fanbase's attachment to the character.

From a production standpoint, the collaboration between Knight and Villeneuve promises a blend of strong narrative and visual storytelling. This partnership could redefine the Bond series, appealing to both traditional fans and new audiences.

The involvement of Amazon MGM suggests a strategic push to leverage the Bond franchise across its platforms, potentially integrating it into broader media offerings. This could lead to innovative marketing strategies and expanded content, further solidifying James Bond's place in cinematic history.

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Additional article image
Image Source: Robert Viglasky/Disney+