Steven Spielberg Reveals He Was Rejected Twice to Direct a James Bond Movie

Steven Spielberg may be one of Hollywood’s most successful filmmakers, but he couldn’t land a James Bond movie—not once, but twice.

The Oscar-winning director recently shared the story on The Rest Is Entertainment podcast. After Jaws became a blockbuster in 1975, Spielberg approached legendary Bond producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and asked to direct a 007 film. Broccoli turned him down.

Spielberg tried again two years later after Close Encounters of the Third Kind became a hit. This time, he even offered Broccoli permission to use the film’s famous five-note musical motif in 1979’s Moonraker if he could direct a Bond movie. Broccoli rejected the idea again, though Spielberg still allowed the music to be used.

Spielberg said he never learned why Broccoli passed on him. Looking back, he joked that he wouldn’t take the job today even if Bond producers offered it.

“Now they can’t afford me,” Spielberg said.

The rejection ultimately changed his career. After hearing about Spielberg’s failed Bond pitch, George Lucas approached him with an adventure film idea. That project became Raiders of the Lost Ark and launched the hugely successful Indiana Jones franchise. Spielberg later called it “better than Bond.”

The story adds another fascinating chapter to Hollywood history. Although Spielberg never directed a Bond film, he built one of cinema’s most celebrated careers. His credits include E.T., Jurassic Park, Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, and the Indiana Jones series.

His comments come as the Bond franchise enters a new era. Denis Villeneuve will direct the next 007 film for Amazon MGM Studios.

Fans may never see Spielberg’s version of James Bond, but his remarkable filmography suggests the franchise missed an opportunity to work with one of cinema’s greatest directors.