Sony Exploring James Bond Cinematic Universe?
Mister Leiter, we weren't expecting you.
Cinematic universe fever appears to be contagious as reports suggest James Bond could soon become the latest property to spawn a series of spinoffs.
Industry insider Jeff Sneider of The Tracking Board claims to have gotten wind of a 007 universe from series producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli.
Presumably the Bond spinoffs would launch around the core instalments, tie in with their overarching narratives and focus on other 00 agents.
Perhaps they could even flesh out the backstory of 007's American counterpart Felix Leiter, or how about solo outings for M, Moneypenny or the villainous Blofeld.
The 25th official James Bond movie is in development, with Daniel Craig expected to return for a fifth outing, following on from last year's Spectre.
Craig made his debut as the super spy in 2006's Casino Royale and has since featured in Quantum of Solace, Skyfall and the aforementioned Spectre.
The 49-year-old was expected to vacate the role after his most recent outing, but appears to have had a change of heart in recent months.
Previous reports suggest that Sherlock helmer Paul McGuigan is in the running to for the director's chair and the film is penciled in for a 2018 release.