Steven Spielberg has revealed that he was repeatedly turned down when he tried to direct a James Bond film, despite wanting to make one for years. Speaking on “The Rest is Entertainment” podcast, Spielberg said he first fell in love with Bond after seeing “Dr. No” in 1962 and later contacted producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli after the success of “Jaws” to ask if he could direct a 007 movie. According to Spielberg, Broccoli declined.
Spielberg said he tried again after “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” was released in 1977. Broccoli asked to use the film’s famous five-note sequence in “Moonraker,” and Spielberg attempted to negotiate: he would grant permission if he could direct a Bond film. Broccoli again refused. Spielberg said Broccoli never explained why he was kept out of the franchise.
The director also recalled discussing the disappointment with his friend George Lucas while they were in Hawaii after “Star Wars: A New Hope” became a hit. Lucas responded that he had “something better” for Spielberg and described a new adventure character, Indiana Smith, later renamed Indiana Jones. That conversation led to one of cinema’s most successful franchises. Spielberg went on to direct four “Indiana Jones” films and served as executive producer on the fifth.
Joking about the Bond rejection, Spielberg said that if the franchise ever asked him now, his answer would be, “You can’t afford me.” The remark underscored how far his career has gone since the days when he was trying to break into the Bond world.
The article also noted that Spielberg remains active beyond film, including gaming interests shared with his son Max, who said in 2024 that his father is a fan of “Call of Duty” and plays on PC. Spielberg had also reportedly wanted to direct a planned “Call of Duty” movie, but the project instead moved forward with Pete Berg attached to direct and a 2028 release target.
With more than five decades in Hollywood, Spielberg’s legacy includes landmark films such as “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “Jurassic Park,” “Schindler’s List,” and “The Color Purple.” He has won three Academy Awards, including Best Director for “Schindler’s List” and “Saving Private Ryan,” and Best Picture for “Schindler’s List.” His next film, “Disclosure Day,” starring Emily Blunt and Josh O’Connor, is scheduled to open in U.S. theaters on June 12.
