Michael G. Wilson

Biography

Michael G. Wilson, born on January 21, 1943, in New York City, is a renowned producer and screenwriter best known for his work on the iconic James Bond film series. His father, Lewis Wilson, made history by being the first actor to portray Batman in a live-action adaptation back in 1943. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry, Wilson found his own path, graduating from Harvey Mudd College with a degree in electrical engineering before pursuing law at Stanford University.

In 1972, Wilson's journey led him to join Eon Productions, the company behind the James Bond franchise, where he initially worked in the legal department. Over the years, he transitioned into a more hands-on role, eventually becoming an executive producer for the film "Moonraker" in 1979. Since then, Wilson has been an integral part of the Bond legacy, serving as a producer or executive producer for every film in the series, often collaborating with his half-sister, Barbara Broccoli.

Wilson's contributions to the James Bond films go beyond production duties. He has also showcased his acting skills through cameo appearances in each Eon-produced Bond movie since 1977. His first cameo was in "Goldfinger," long before stepping into the role of a producer, where he appeared as a soldier. These appearances have become a fun tradition for fans to spot Wilson in various scenes throughout the franchise.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the film industry, Wilson was honored with the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2008 New Year Honours. Additionally, his dedication to photography was acknowledged in 2010 when he received The Royal Photographic Society's award for Outstanding Service to Photography, earning him an Honorary Fellowship with the Society.

Throughout his career, Wilson collaborated closely with esteemed Bond screenwriter Richard Maibaum on several films, including "For Your Eyes Only" in 1981. Their partnership faced a challenge during the making of "Licence to Kill" in 1989 when Wilson had to complete the screenplay alone due to a strike by the Writers Guild of America, west. Despite this setback, Wilson's creative vision continued to shape the Bond universe, leaving an indelible mark on the series.

Despite his success as a producer and screenwriter, Wilson's passion for the film industry extends beyond the James Bond franchise. His diverse background in engineering and law has equipped him with a unique perspective that enriches his storytelling. As he continues to leave his mark on cinema, Michael G. Wilson remains a multifaceted talent whose influence reaches far beyond the silver screen.