Story perspectives

Spielberg, Top-Grossing Director, Says “Can’t Afford Bond”

6/13/2026

Summary

Spielberg Rejects Bond

Steven Spielberg said on a podcast that after being rejected by producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli after Jaws (1975) and Close Encounters (1977), Steven Spielberg would now answer “You can’t afford me” to any Bond offer.
The rejections prompted Steven Spielberg to direct the four Indiana Jones movies starting with Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), earning $2.37 billion worldwide.
Disclosure Day opened June 12 2026, making Steven Spielberg the highest-grossing director with a $11.5 billion net worth.

Summary

Spielberg Challenges Bond

Steven Spielberg says his creature-focused, family-centric visual style clashes with the James Bond series’ grounded, character-driven format.
He cites iconic set-pieces like the Jaws shark and Jurassic Park T-rex as monster-centric contrasts to Bond’s larger-than-life hero.
He contrasts Bond’s cool, serious demeanor with his own flawed, humorous protagonists such as Indiana Jones.
He notes the series’ established music would block a new John Williams score, limiting visual-musical synergy.

History

Historical Context

In 1962 Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Saltzman launched the James Bond film series with Dr. No, building a franchise that would reach 25 Eon titles and over $7 billion worldwide by the 2020s. After Spielberg’s breakout hit Jaws in 1975, Broccoli—now the sole producer following Saltzman’s exit—rejected Spielberg’s ideas for a Bond-Indiana Jones crossover, ending any chance of collaboration.

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Spielberg Rejects Bond

Steven Spielberg said on a podcast that after being rejected by producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli after Jaws (1975) and Close Encounters (1977), Steven Spielberg would now answer “You can’t afford me” to any Bond offer.
The rejections prompted Steven Spielberg to direct the four Indiana Jones movies starting with Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), earning $2.37 billion worldwide.
Disclosure Day opened June 12 2026, making Steven Spielberg the highest-grossing director with a $11.5 billion net worth.

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