J.J. Abrams, who launched a new era of Star Wars with The Force Awakens in 2015, is returning to complete the sequel trilogy as writer and director of Star Wars: Episode IX. Abrams will co-write the film with Chris Terrio. Star Wars: Episode IX will be produced by Kathleen Kennedy, Michelle Rejwan, Abrams, Bad Robot, and Lucasfilm.
“With The Force Awakens, J.J. delivered everything we could have possibly hoped for, and I am so excited that he is coming back to close out this trilogy,” said Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy.
WATCH – J.J. ABRAMS WILL WRITE/DIRECT “STARWARS: EPISODE IX”:
Abrams is replacing Colin Trevorrow, who parted ways with Lucasfilm only a few days ago.
J.J. Abrams to write and direct Star Wars Episode IX. https://t.co/aVF8UWaK0e pic.twitter.com/YrjgZZNxUx
— Star Wars (@starwars) September 12, 2017
According to Variety, the plan was to begin production on “Episode IX” in February 2018 but that may be delayed now due to these changes.
“Star Wars: Episode IX” is scheduled for release on May 24, 2019.