Lucasfilm may have found the filmmaker who will help launch the next chapter of the Star Wars saga. According to a report from Knight Edge Media, later corroborated by The Hollywood Reporter, Jon Watts is currently being considered to direct Star Wars: Episode X, the first movie in a new trilogy being developed by screenwriter Simon Kinberg. Watts is already familiar with the galaxy far, far away after working on Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, while his previous credits also include Marvel Studios’ Spider-Man: No Way Home.

For now, discussions are reportedly focused on Episode X rather than the entire trilogy, although Lucasfilm could potentially expand Watts’ involvement later. The director already has strong ties with Disney after signing a first-look agreement with the studio in 2024 through his production company Freshman Year, covering future live action film projects. Should an agreement be finalized, Watts would join the limited group of filmmakers who have directed a numbered episode of the main Star Wars saga.

The upcoming movie is expected to take place after the events of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and continue the story beyond Episode IX. Daisy Ridley is reportedly expected to return as Jedi Master Rey, although her role could initially be relatively limited. Lucasfilm had previously been developing a separate Rey-focused project known as Star Wars: New Jedi Order, but current reports suggest that project has been set aside as the studio shifts its attention toward Episode X and the broader new trilogy.

Questions remain regarding the rest of the sequel trilogy cast. There is currently no confirmation that John Boyega will return as Finn or that Oscar Isaac will reprise his role as Poe Dameron. Lucasfilm is also reportedly searching for new male and female leads, with relatively unknown performers being considered for major roles. If development continues without significant delays, production could potentially begin in 2027. Lucasfilm has not officially announced Jon Watts as director at this stage.