Thalberg Award
18th November 2024
Daniel Craig introduced recipients Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli
By MI6 Staff
On Sunday, November 17, 2024, at the 15th Annual Governors Awards, James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson were honored with the prestigious Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award. This accolade, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, recognizes creative producers whose bodies of work reflect a consistently high quality of motion picture production.
The ceremony, held at Hollywood's Ray Dolby Theater, was a star-studded affair, with industry luminaries gathering to celebrate the honorees' remarkable contributions to cinema. Daniel Craig, who portrayed James Bond in five films, introduced Broccoli and Wilson, highlighting their dedication to the franchise. He noted that they "took what their father created and, to put a monumental achievement quite simply, made it even better," humorously adding that they were the "most expensive independent movies ever made."
In her acceptance speech, Barbara Broccoli reflected on the significance of the award, recalling that her father, Albert "Cubby" Broccoli, received the same honor in 1982. She expressed deep gratitude, stating, "Mostly, I'm deeply grateful and profoundly moved because I watched my father accept this award in 1981. A farm boy who made good in Hollywood ..."
Michael G. Wilson also shared his appreciation, acknowledging the collaborative efforts that have sustained the Bond series over the decades. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the franchise's integrity and the commitment to delivering high-quality films that resonate with audiences worldwide.
The Irving G. Thalberg ... has been bestowed only 39 times since its inception in 1937, underscoring the exceptional nature of this recognition. Barbara Broccoli is notably the second woman to receive this honor, following Kathleen Kennedy in 2018.
This accolade not only celebrates Broccoli and Wilson's unwavering dedication to the James Bond franchise but also highlights their influential roles in shaping the landscape of modern cinema. Their visionary leadership ensures that the legacy of 007 continues to captivate and entertain audiences around the globe.