We just learned via Lucasfilm that director Colin Trevorrow has exited the untitled Star Wars: Episode 9.
Well, as we suspected, it looks like The Last Jedi‘s Rian Johnson might be asked to finish the trilogy. Deadline seems to be the first to the punch with the news that Rian is possibly on a shortlist to take the reigns.
Insiders said that nothing is done yet, but that prospect is certainly in the air right now. The Looper helmer fit seamlessly into the Lucasfilm machine, which is no small feat given the number of star directors who’ve been chewed up and spat out under the “creative differences” line in exiting Star Wars movies.
Normally, when Lucasfilm makes these announcements they have a secondary plan already lined-up. Ron Howard’s name (also reported by Deadline) was the first and last name in the mix to replace Lord/Miller on Han Solo, was because likely they had already hired him before the announcement of their exit was made public.
When Rian was originally hired to direct the idea was that he would direct both The Last Jedi and Episode 9, so this isn’t a terrible move on the part of the studio. A safe and established choice has been expected after recent hiccups with directors.
This gives the impression that Rian might already be ready to go on the third installment. We’re impressed with what he’s already done with The Last Jedi and it looks like Lucasfilm is excited enough.
SOURCE: DEADLINE