Credit: LucasfilmDisney and Lucasfilm have reportedly initiated development on a new Star Wars trilogy, according to sources cited by Deadline.
Disney and Lucasfilm Set to Launch New Star Wars Trilogy Post-Rise of Skywalker
The new project might take place after the events of the 2019 film Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, and is set to involve screenwriter and producer Simon Kinberg. This trilogy aims to expand the franchise into fresh storytelling territory rather than directly extending the original Skywalker narrative, insiders suggest.
Lucasfilm has officially closed a deal with Kinberg, who will write and produce the trilogy alongside Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy. This collaboration marks a notable continuation of Kinberg’s involvement with the Star Wars universe, as he has previously worked with the studio on other major projects.
No word yet if a certain Jedi Knight (Rey), a Force version of Luke Skywalker, Ahsoka Tano, Anakin Skywalker, or any other Jedi Knight or Jedi Master will be in the new trilogy.
A New Direction Beyond the Skywalker Saga
The original Star Wars saga, known as the Skywalker Saga, began in 1977 with the release of George Lucas’s landmark film. Along with Spielberg’s Jaws, it set a new standard for the global blockbuster, creating a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
The new trilogy, however, is expected to move beyond the Skywalker lineage and introduce a new chapter in the Star Wars canon. According to sources, it is still unclear if the trilogy will adopt the Episode X-XII monikers, though Disney and Lucasfilm have declined to comment on the speculation.
Despite earlier reports indicating that Kinberg’s work could directly continue the Skywalker storyline, insiders say the plan is to create a fresh narrative thread. This new saga would join a growing list of Star Wars projects currently in development, including films by James Mangold, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Taika Waititi, and Donald Glover. These projects represent Lucasfilm’s ongoing efforts to diversify and deepen the Star Wars universe, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.
Kinberg’s Franchise Expertise and History with Lucasfilm
Kinberg is no stranger to Lucasfilm or large-scale franchise storytelling. He previously co-created the Emmy-nominated animated series Star Wars Rebels with Dave Filoni and Carrie Beck. Star Wars Rebels, which aired for four seasons from 2014 to 2018, gained acclaim for its storytelling and connection to broader Star Wars lore.
Kinberg also served as a consultant on 2015’s Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, directed by J.J. Abrams, which revitalized the franchise for a new generation of viewers.
Beyond Star Wars, Kinberg has an extensive background in managing and expanding major film franchises. He spent a decade working on the X-Men films, including the well-received spin-off Logan, which starred Hugh Jackman and was directed by James Mangold. Kinberg also produced the first two Deadpool films, known for their unconventional approach within the superhero genre, as well as the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine slated for 2024.
Expanding His Franchise Portfolio
In addition to his work with Lucasfilm and Marvel properties, Kinberg’s production and writing portfolio includes Ridley Scott’s The Martian, for which he served as a producer. The film, starring Matt Damon, became a critical and commercial success, earning Kinberg recognition for his ability to handle high-stakes, big-budget films.
He has also scripted major productions such as Mr. & Mrs. Smith and co-wrote the Sherlock Holmes film starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law, which helped launch a successful franchise in its own right.
Kinberg has also contributed to the popular Agatha Christie adaptations directed by Kenneth Branagh, starting with Murder on the Orient Express. His experience within multiple genre-spanning franchises has positioned him as a key figure in Hollywood’s modern blockbuster landscape, with a keen understanding of how to balance character-driven narratives with expansive world-building.
Upcoming Projects: Stephen King Adaptation and New Star Trek Film
Beyond Star Wars, Kinberg has several high-profile projects in the pipeline. He is currently producing a remake of Stephen King’s The Running Man for Paramount Pictures. The film, which just began production, will be directed by Edgar Wright and features an ensemble cast including Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Emilia Jones, William H. Macy, and Lee Pace. This adaptation of King’s dystopian thriller is expected to bring a modernized take on the 1982 novel.
Kinberg is also involved in Paramount’s upcoming Star Trek movie, which is set to be directed by Toby Haynes and penned by Seth Grahame-Smith. Although details about this project remain limited, it marks another significant addition to his work in the realm of high-profile, science fiction franchises.
Kinberg is represented by the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and attorney Karl Austen at Jackoway Austen Tyerman. With these strong professional affiliations and a resume that includes some of Hollywood’s biggest franchises, Kinberg has established himself as a valuable asset within the film industry.
Industry Representation and Professional Connections in Star Wars
His versatility in handling both original productions and long-standing franchises is expected to serve him well as he steps back into the Star Wars galaxy for this upcoming trilogy. The new Star Wars trilogy marks Disney and Lucasfilm’s latest move to maintain the franchise’s cultural relevance by exploring narratives outside the core Skywalker story. With Kinberg’s extensive experience and a strong partnership with Lucasfilm, the project holds significant promise for both fans and newcomers alike.
Conclusion: A Strategic Move for the Star Wars Franchise
With Kinberg at the helm and Kennedy overseeing production, the trilogy is likely to reflect a blend of innovative storytelling and familiar elements that Star Wars fans have come to expect. Further details remain under wraps, but anticipation is already high for what the next era of Star Wars will bring.
As Disney and Lucasfilm look to expand their slate with projects from various directors, this trilogy may play a crucial role in defining the future of the Star Wars cinematic universe.