So we meet again, Mr Bond

ITV and MGM have announced an exclusive deal to bring back James Bond to free-to-air television in the UK.

The multi-year agreement will see the entire James Bond film series available on ITV, ITV2 and ITV4.

ITV had owned the broadcast rights for James Bond for almost 40 years before Sky won the contract last year.

ITV will also have the free-to-air premiere of the latest Bond instalment Skyfall, which will air in 2014.

“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,” said Angela Jain, ITV’s director of digital channels and acquisitions.

“I am delighted we have the entire Bond library of films on Britain’s biggest commercial channel, a fantastic treat for all viewers.”