J.J. Abrams to Direct Star Wars reboot

J.J. Abrams, the director and producer best known for the television series “Alias” and “LOST” and mega-blockbuster films, Mission Impossible III and the 2009 Star Trek reboot has been tapped to helm the next Star Wars film.  The franchise, acquired by Disney last year from George Lucas for $4 Billion dollars, is on a fast-track for a new chapter in the series in 2015.

Since Disney acquired the franchise, much speculation has gone forth as to who would take over the directing mantle now that Lucas has retired.  Abrams name topped the list of potential candidates including such other popular directors as Steven Spielberg, Joss Whedon and even Ben Affleck, coming off his high marks for Argo.  In November, J.J. Abrams very quickly put the rumors to rest saying that he was interested in focusing on his own original projects and that while a huge fan of the original Star Wars films, would not be taking over directing duties.  More after the jump.

Despite Abrams’ initial dismissal of taking the job, Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy had been pursuing him, fully aware of Abrams’ reputation as the leading director and producer in Hollywood with a very loyal fanbase.  The decision to helm the new film is no doubt a personal one for Abrams and early reaction to the announcement has met with much approval in the online community and with dedicated Star Wars fans.

J.J. Abrams beams over to ‘Star Wars’

Abrams is currently wrapping up post-production on Star Trek: Into Darkness for Paramount which opens on May 18.  Due to the looming deadline of a 2015 release date, he will have to beam over to the Star Wars production in short time despite a slate of producing responsibilities on other projects.  No official announcement from Lucasfilm, Disney or Abrams’ shingle, Bad Robot, has been made yet regarding his naming as director despite sources saying it’s a done deal.

George Lucas and J.J. Abrams