Jon Watts to Direct Star Wars: Episode X
Marvel veteran takes helm of next Skywalker Saga trilogy
1New director for Star Wars
Jon Watts, known for directing Spider-Man's Home trilogy, has been tapped to helm the first film in a new Star Wars trilogy. The project will continue the Skywalker Saga after The Rise of Skywalker. Watts replaces previous directors who struggled with Disney's franchise management. His involvement signals Disney's preference for proven blockbuster directors.
2Creative team reassembled
Simon Kinberg, writer of several X-Men films and creator of Star Wars Rebels, will pen the new trilogy. Both Watts and Kinberg are Marvel alumni transitioning to Star Wars. This marks Kinberg's return to Star Wars after Rebels concluded in 2018. Their collaboration represents a merging of Marvel and Star Wars creative talent pools.
3Rey's potential return
Daisy Ridley's Rey character may appear in the new trilogy, though her role remains undefined. The Hollywood Reporter suggests the story will follow post-Rise of Skywalker events. This would mark Ridley's first Star Wars appearance since 2019. Character continuity remains a challenge for the franchise's future storytelling.
4Development status
The first film hasn't received official greenlight from Disney yet, but is reportedly the most advanced among announced Star Wars projects. Watts previously directed the Star Wars series Skeleton Crew. Disney's cautious approach follows years of development struggles on Star Wars films. The studio appears to be prioritizing experienced franchise directors.
5Franchise challenges
Disney has faced difficulties producing Star Wars films since acquiring Lucasfilm. Multiple announced projects have been canceled or indefinitely delayed. The last theatrical release was 2019's The Rise of Skywalker. Watts' hiring suggests Disney is returning to established franchise formulas after experimental phases.
6Marvel connections
Both Watts and Kinberg bring extensive Marvel experience to Star Wars. Watts directed all three Tom Holland Spider-Man films. Kinberg wrote and produced multiple X-Men films including Days of Future Past. Their hiring continues the talent exchange between Disney's two biggest franchises.
7Upcoming Star Wars content
While waiting for the new trilogy, Star Wars returns to theaters with Starfighter in May 2027. The franchise continues expanding through Disney+ series like The Acolyte. This multi-platform approach allows Disney to maintain fan engagement between major film releases. The Watts/Kinberg project represents the next phase of theatrical storytelling.
8Franchise crossroads
Watts' hiring represents Disney's attempt to stabilize Star Wars film production after years of turbulence. His blockbuster experience aligns with Disney's commercial priorities for the franchise. The project's success could determine Star Wars' cinematic future. Much depends on whether Disney can balance creative risks with franchise expectations.
Original article: Gizmodo — Jon Watts to Direct Star Wars: Episode X