Amazon’s Prime Video Buys U.K.’s Bray Film Studios

Amazon’s Prime Video is acquiring Bray Film Studios in the U.K., which has been the production home for the second season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.

The studio—based in Water Oakley, Berkshire—covers 53,636 square feet and includes five sound stages, 77,480 square feet of workshops, 39,400 square feet of office space, 182,952 square feet of backlot and 156,000 square feet of parking space.

The first Amazon MGM Studios production to be located at the studio following the acquisition will be the second season of Citadel. The new season is scheduled to begin filming in September.

Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, said: “With Bray as our creative home in the U.K., we are committed to deepening our relationships with the U.K. creative community, which is rich with world-class storytellers and creative talent of all kinds. The acquisition of a studio with such a storied heritage not only empowers us to produce more film and television in the U.K. but also unveils a wealth of opportunities in the local community with respect to jobs and skills training at all levels of the production process.”

Frank Burke, chairman of Bray Film Studios, added: “For 70-plus years, Bray Studios has held an important place in the history of British filmmaking. During our period of ownership, I, together with my family and team, have witnessed the rebirth of this iconic facility, and we are extremely proud of the part we have been able to play in bringing it to renewed prominence.

“We are now genuinely excited to be handing the studios over to Amazon, who we believe share our commitment to quality and excellence and are perfectly suited to preserving the character of the studio while enhancing the first-class creative production spaces for generations of filmmakers to come.”