James Bond News: Blofeld may return, Bond back on TV and Hugh Jackman says he’s funny

There are several small updates from the James Bond universe, but little news on the next Bond film.

BLOFELD CLEARED TO RETURN

Ernst Stavro Blofeld can return to the James Bond universe after 30 years of legal battles have finally been settled.

The villain Blofeld and the evil organization SPECTRE were part of the estate of co-creator Kevin McClory. These characters introduced in Thunderball have been tied up lawsuits and transfers of rights for years.

“Danjaq, LLC, the producer of the James Bond films, and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), the longtime distributor of the Bond films, along with the estate and family of the late Kevin McClory, announced today that Danjaq and MGM have acquired all of the estate’s and family’s rights and interests relating to James Bond, thus bringing to an amicable conclusion the legal and business disputes that have arisen periodically for over 50 years,” said the parties in a statement.

Ernst Stavro Blofeld is perhaps the iconic Bond villain, variously portrayed on the big screen by Donald Pleasance, Charles Gray, Telly Savalas and Max Von Sydow, as well as inspiring the character of Dr Evil in Mike Myers’ Austin Powers films.

ITV DEAL GETS BOND BACK ON TV

 ITV and MGM International Television Distribution Inc (MGM) have signed a multi-year agreement to bring the film franchise, including the latest instalment Skyfall, back to the channel after a one-year hiatus.

All 23 films in the franchise will be available for free, across ITV, ITV2 and ITV4, and Sam Mendes’ Skyfall, starring Daniel Craig as the agent, will be shown in 2014.

ITV’s Angela Jain said: “Skyfall is the highest grossing film of all time at the UK box office and proves not only the enduring popularity of the Bond franchise but also its iconic status. I am delighted we have the entire Bond library of films on Britain’s biggest commercial channel, a fantastic treat for all viewers.”

Chris Ottinger from MGM added: “MGM is thrilled to partner again with ITV to bring James Bond home to UK audiences. The Bond franchise is a jewel in the MGM library and we are delighted to share the films with the viewers across the United Kingdom.”

HUGH JACKMAN SAYS BOND IS FUNNY

Wolverine star Hugh Jackman says that there is more to Quantum of Solace star Daniel Craig than what meets the eye.

The duo have been friends ever since they starred in A Steady Rain on Broadway in 2009.

“Daniel is ridiculously funny in real life. I keep telling him he should do Saturday Night Live because he will make you cry with laughter. He’s also very cheeky,” 45-year-old Australian actor stated.