Disney makes it official: 'Yes, J.J. Abrams will direct Star Wars: Episode VII'

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Confirming yesterday’s media reports, Disney and Lucasfilm have announced that Star Trek Into Darkness director J.J. Abrams will direct the next Star Wars movie.

Abrams’ longtime producing partner Bryan Burk and production company Bad Robot are on board to produce along with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy. The Empire Strikes Back, Raiders of the Lost Ark and Return of the Jedi screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan and Sherlock Holmes screenwriter Simon Kinberg will consult. The script is being written by Toy Story 3 and Little Miss Sunshine scribe Michael Arndt.

Kathleen Kennedy: “It’s very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new Star Wars movie. J.J. is the perfect director to helm this. Beyond having such great instincts as a filmmaker, he has an intuitive understanding of this franchise. He understands the essence of the Star Wars experience, and will bring that talent to create an unforgettable motion picture.”

George Lucas: “I’ve consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller. He’s an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn’t be in better hands.”

J.J. Abrams: “To be a part of the next chapter of the Star Wars saga, to collaborate with Kathy Kennedy and this remarkable group of people, is an absolute honor. I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid.”

Star Wars Episode VII News