Production is now officially underway onStar Wars: Episode IX, and directorJ.J. Abramsis marking the occasion with a sweet note attached to the first “set photo”—although don’t get too excited, as the camera is the only thing in focus. But this being J.J. Abrams, there could be some hidden nuggets within, as you can make outJohn Boyega’s Finn smiling and chatting in the background with… Poe? It’s unclear, but it’s exciting.
As Abrams embarks on crafting the final chapter of the Skywalker saga, he penned a note thankingThe Last JedifilmmakerRian Johnson, as well as the man who started it all,George Lucas:
Bittersweet starting this next chapter without Carrie, but thanks to an extraordinary cast and crew, we are ready to go. Grateful for@rianjohnsonand special thanks to George Lucas for creating this incredible world and beginning a story of which we are lucky to be a part.#IX
Johnson, it must be said, replied to the tweet witha very appropriateStar Warsgifof his own. This is an exciting time, and fans are mighty curious to see how this franchise wraps up. While Lucasfilm originally intended on having three different directors helm these three new episodes,Colin Trevorrowco-wrote and worked onEpisode IXfor about a year before he was fired. Abrams was then lured back to finish what he started, and he began from scratch, co-writing the script with Oscar-winningArgoscreenwriter andBatman v Supermanco-writerChris Terrio.
Abrams shared a lot of set photos and videos during the production ofThe Force Awakensthat revealed absolutely nothing, but also gave fans something to enjoy, so it’ll be interesting to see if he does the same onEpisode IXor if this thing’s on total lockdown.
Lucasfilm announced last week the fullStar Wars 9cast, which features new additionsNaomi Ackie,Richard E. Grant, andKeri Russellalong with the highly anticipated return ofBilly Dee Williamsas the iconic Lando Calrissian.
The lateCarrie Fisherwill appear via unused footage fromThe Force Awakens, withDaisy Ridley,Adam Driver,John Boyega,Oscar Isaac,Lupita Nyong’o,Domhnall Gleeson,Kelly Marie Tran,Joonas Suotamo, andBillie Lourdall returning as well.
Check out the tweet and image below.Star Wars: Episode IXopens in theaters on June 24, 2025.
