Earlier this week, we at Knight Edge Media learned exclusively that a director had been found for the next Star Wars trilogy from screenwriter Simon Kinberg (X-Men: Days of Future Past, Star Wars: Rebels). However, at the time, our source couldn’t provide a name, though others in the industry had also heard that a director had been found. Now, two sources tell us Lucasfilm is circling Jon Watts (Spider-Man: No Way Home, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew) for the gig. For now, it would be only for Episode X, but that could change. Watts did sign a first-look deal with Walt Disney in 2024 to produce live-action films under his production banner, Freshman Year (via Deadline). If the deal is completed, he will follow previous Skywalker Saga directors George Lucas (Star Wars: Episodes 1-4), J.J. Abrams (Star Wars: Episodes 7 & 9) and Rian Johnson (Star Wars: Episode 8).
The film is expected to continue the saga as Episode X following the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Daisy Ridley (We Clean the Dead) is also expected to return as Jedi Master Rey. Her spin-off film, Star Wars: New Jedi Order, was in development for a while but was shelved in favor of Episode X. She is expected to have a minor role in this film, and it may possibly expand in the sequels. It’s unknown if John Boyega (Finn) or Oscar Isaac (Poe Dameron) will return after their public exit from Disney in 2019. Lucasfilm is currently casting new, relatively unknown male and female leads. Production could begin as early as next year if everything goes according to plan. Lucasfilm could not be reached for comment.
Shoutout to Jordan Maison of Cinelinx.com, who helped with this story. The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed the story.
Star Wars: Episode X has no set release date
Small Tidbit…A director has been found for the new #StarWars trilogy by screenwriter Simon Kinberg. Kinberg wasn’t considered.
Production is picking up steam FAST and could begin filming as early as next year. pic.twitter.com/0pmh4DgFyr
— Caleb Williams (@KnightGambit) September 21, 2026
- Lucasfilm is currently eyeing Jon Watts to direct Star Wars: Episode X from screenwriter Simon Kinberg.
- Daisy Ridley is expected to return as Jedi Master Rey in a supporting role for the upcoming film.
- Production for the new Star Wars installment could begin as early as next year with active casting underway.
