It has been revealed that J.J. Abrams will not be returning behind the lens for Disney’s “Star Wars: Episode 8”. Rian Johnson is officially in talks to take over the helming duties, and he will be expected to write the script. Johnson is best known for his futuristic action thriller  “Looper” starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis.  The film about mob assassinations via black market time travel, was a huge surprise hit back in 2012. The helmer also sat behind the lens for several episodes of “Breaking Bad” last season.

"Star Wars: Episode 8" is planned for 2017.

“Star Wars: Episode 8” is planned for 2017.

Production news for all that is “Star Wars” have been making headlines lately. Geeks following the “Star Wars” cinematic universe production progress will be familiar with the ongoing rumors suggesting that popular characters in the franchise will be getting their own movies. Bounty Hunter Boba Fett, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker and Jedi master Yoda will likely receive the spin-off treatment, with no less than three spin-off movies scheduled to be released in between the main installments. Rian Johnson’s breaking news comes short on the heels of the exciting announcement that “Godzilla” helmer Gareth Edwards has officially been hired to direct a “Star Wars” spin-off, and ‘Fantastic Four’ Helmer Josh Trank Hired to Direct Standalone ‘Star Wars’ Film.

The spin-off projects will take shape once Abrams’ “Star Wars Episode 7” kicks off on December 18, 2015.

Johnson may have hinted at accepting the huge responsibility by posting a cryptic tweet which contains an embedded clip from 1983’s “The Right Stuff” in which Scott Glenn’s character prays, “Dear lord, please don’t let me f**k up.”

“Star Wars: Episode 8” is planned for 2017.

Source: dailymail.co.uk