# Jon Watts to Direct Star Wars: Episode X Marvel alum Jon Watts set to helm the next Skywalker Saga installment. - **Source:** [Gizmodo](https://gizmodo.com/) - **Published:** 2026-09-26 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/4c41e2da-486a-42fa-b831-a868f7fde892 ## Director announcement Jon Watts, known for directing Spider-Man's Home trilogy, has been chosen to direct the first film in a new Star Wars trilogy. The project, penned by Simon Kinberg, will continue the Skywalker Saga post-Rise of Skywalker. While Disney hasn't officially greenlit the film, it's reportedly the most advanced among announced Star Wars projects. Both Watts and Kinberg have previous Star Wars experience through Skeleton Crew and Rebels respectively. ## Creative team background Watts and Kinberg bring significant Marvel experience to the Star Wars universe. Kinberg wrote and produced multiple X-Men films, while Watts directed all three Tom Holland Spider-Man movies. Watts was nearly attached to Marvel's Fantastic Four reboot before this Star Wars opportunity. Their combined blockbuster experience positions them well for handling a major franchise installment, though Star Wars presents unique creative challenges. ## Rey's potential return The Hollywood Reporter suggests Daisy Ridley's Rey may appear in the new trilogy, though her role remains undefined. This would mark Ridley's first return to the franchise since 2019's The Rise of Skywalker. The report doesn't specify whether she'll be the central character or have a supporting role. Her potential involvement indicates the new films will maintain continuity with the sequel trilogy rather than reboot the timeline. ## Franchise context This announcement comes as Disney struggles to stabilize its Star Wars film strategy. Since acquiring Lucasfilm, Disney has released five saga films but faced creative and commercial challenges. The studio currently has multiple Star Wars films in various development stages, with Watts' project being the most advanced. Meanwhile, the franchise continues with Starfighter's theatrical release in May 2027. ## Watts' Star Wars history Watts previously co-created and directed Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, a live-action series starring Jude Law. Though the show's reception was mixed, it demonstrated Watts' ability to work within the Star Wars universe. His feature film approach may differ significantly from the series' tone. Skeleton Crew's short run suggests Lucasfilm is willing to take creative risks with established filmmakers. ## Kinberg's franchise experience Simon Kinberg brings extensive franchise experience beyond his Star Wars Rebels work. As a writer-producer on multiple X-Men films, he navigated complex continuity and fan expectations. His producing credits include Deadpool and The Martian, demonstrating range across sci-fi genres. Kinberg's involvement suggests the new trilogy may blend Star Wars' mythic qualities with contemporary blockbuster storytelling. ## Development status While unconfirmed by Disney, industry reports position this as the most developed Star Wars film project. The studio has announced or hinted at numerous films that haven't progressed, making Watts' attachment significant. The lack of official greenlight reflects Disney's cautious approach following recent box office disappointments. This development phase typically involves script refinements and budget approvals before full production begins. ## Franchise implications Watts' hiring signals Lucasfilm's preference for directors with proven franchise experience over newcomers. His Marvel background suggests the films may emphasize character-driven action alongside Star Wars' traditional elements. The trilogy format indicates long-term planning rather than standalone stories. This approach aims to stabilize the franchise after the divisive sequel trilogy and various production challenges. ## Sources covering this story - https://gizmodo.com/jon-watts-is-our-star-wars-episode-x-director-2000817826 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._