It’s no secret that MGM is in trouble. The movie company is almost $4 billion in debt and looking for a buyer. Its financial woes are having an impact on some major productions.
The next James Bond film was scheduled for release in 2012. First, production on the film was halted in April. Now there’s word the film has been shelved for good.
Production company EON released a statement yesterday (July 5): "We do not know when development will resume and cannot comment further at this stage."
Next to The Hobbit films. Director Guillermo del Toro already announced he was stepping down from his role. There are rumours Peter Jackson would replace him. Now there are reports MGM is trying to sell the rights to the two films.
Ian McKellan plays the pivotal role of Gandalf. He appeared on New Zealand’s Good morning show and made some discouraging comments: "I’ve got no news to give you except that an announcement is imminent, but what it will be I genuinely don’t know."
The actor also talked about the possibility he may not reprise his role: "Well, I’m not under contract and my time is running out."