AceShowbiz - Amazon has wrestled creative control of the James Bond franchise after forming a new joint venture with longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. As part of the deal, Broccoli and Wilson retain co-ownership of the franchise but cede creative control to Amazon.

Amazon founder and executive chairman Jeff Bezos quickly reached out to his social media followers, asking for suggestions on who should succeed Daniel Craig as the iconic super spy secret agent. The post garnered a flurry of comments, with popular choices including Henry Cavill, Aaron Pierre, and Tom Cruise.

Cavill, in particular, has a strong fan base clamoring for him to take on the role. The actor auditioned for Bond in 2006 but eventually lost the part to Craig. Director Martin Campbell, who helmed "Casino Royale," praised Cavill's audition but noted he was too young at the time.

The new deal between Amazon and Bond producers marks a significant shift in the Bond franchise. It is the first time the Broccoli family will not have creative control over the film series since Albert R. Broccoli purchased the rights to Ian Fleming's novels in 1961.

This joint venture also came after months of speculations that the next 007 instalment was in limbo as Amazon boarded the project following the release of "No Time to Die". Report suggested that a bitter feud between franchise producer Barbara Broccoli and Amazon were holding up production on the next film.

Amazon wanted to develop multiple spin-offs and a Marvel-like expansion of the franchise, clashing with Broccoli's vision for the character while she was taking her time to find the right actor to carry the Bond mantle. She dreaded Amazon's "algorithm-centric" approach, claiming it would ruin the franchise.