Steven Spielberg Reveals Repeated Rejections from James Bond Producers, Says He's 'Too Expensive' Now
Steven Spielberg disclosed on a podcast that he repeatedly attempted to direct a James Bond film but was consistently turned down by producer Cubby Broccoli, even after offering to trade permission to use music from 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' for the opportunity. Spielberg's failed Bond pursuits led him to accept George Lucas's offer to direct Indiana Jones instead. The director stated that if Bond producers approached him today, he would decline because they "can't afford" him.
During a podcast interview promoting his film 'Disclosure Day,' Steven Spielberg recounted his long-standing desire to direct a James Bond movie and his unsuccessful efforts to secure the role. After 'Jaws' became a major success, Spielberg directly approached producer Cubby Broccoli to volunteer for a Bond film, but was rejected. Years later, when Broccoli sought permission to use the iconic five-note musical theme from 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' in 'Moonraker,' Spielberg attempted to negotiate—offering the rights in exchange for a chance to direct a Bond film—but was again refused. Spielberg noted that Broccoli never explained his reasoning. This rejection ultimately redirected Spielberg's career trajectory; George Lucas subsequently pitched the Indiana Jones concept to him in 1977, which became one of cinema's most successful franchises. Spielberg concluded that contemporary Bond producers lack the financial resources to hire him.
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Steven Spielberg Says James Bond Movies ‘Constantly Turned Me Down’ and ‘If They Asked Me Now’ to Direct the Answer Would Be: ‘You Can’t Afford Me’
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