Core Insights - Recent reports suggesting Amazon acquired the James Bond franchise for $20 million are inaccurate, as the actual cost is likely much higher [2][5][16] - Amazon's strategy to dominate Hollywood includes significant investments, such as $250 million for The Lord of the Rings TV rights and over $800 million for The Rings of Power [3][4] - The acquisition of MGM for $8.5 billion provided Amazon access to the Bond franchise, but creative control required an additional estimated payment of $1 billion to the franchise's stewards [4][16] Ownership Structure - The ownership of the Bond rights is complex, dating back to 1961 when Eon Productions was established by Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman [7][9] - Danjaq has held the James Bond rights since the 1960s, operating under a tax-efficient structure that benefits from lower tax rates in Switzerland [8][11] - The Broccoli family has maintained control over Danjaq and Eon, continuing to manage the franchise until Amazon's recent acquisition [12][14] Financial Implications - Danjaq reportedly earned $109 million from the Bond film Skyfall, highlighting the franchise's profitability and contradicting claims of a $20 million rights sale [15] - Amazon's acquisition strategy indicates that the majority of its payment was likely directed towards Danjaq rather than Eon Productions [18] - Recent trademark filings by a new entity, London Operations, LLC, suggest that Amazon has taken over the rights to the Bond franchise, ensuring creative control [17]

Warner Bros Discovery owns HBO, the TV network behind the hit series Succession - HBO Netflix is said to be considering a bid for Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) after the Hollywood conglomerate said it was open to takeover offers. The streaming giant is reportedly among suitors interested in WBD, which is behind Harry Potter and owner of channels including HBO and CNN. Comcast, Sky’s US owner, has also been named as a potential bidder by CNBC. A takeover of Warner Bros would mark an audacious swoop by Netfl ...