6 Sep – Here's another case of the director and the studio not seeing eye-to-eye on a project; it was just revealed today that Colin Trevorrow is no longer helming the upcoming "Star Wars: Episode IX". No further explanation was offered in the official statement released on StarWars.com: "Lucasfilm and Colin Trevorrow have mutually chosen to part ways on "Star Wars: Episode IX". Colin has been a wonderful collaborator throughout the development process but we have all come to the conclusion that our visions for the project differ. We wish Colin the best and will be sharing more information about the film soon."
Trevorrow, whose past successes include 2015's "Jurassic World" and 2012's "Safety Not Guaranteed", has been attached to direct the movie since August 2015. It's only been a few hours since news of his surprise exit broke but there is already a new rumour swirling online: "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" writer-director Rian Johnson may be the one taking over the reins. Deadline is reporting that Johnson is currently the top choice among a shortlist of directors being eyed to replace Trevorrow. The Force must be strong with Johnson if he really gets picked for the 2019 "Episode IX", seeing that he is already helming this year's "The Last Jedi", which means he will be in charge of both the follow-ups to 2014's "Star Wars: The Force Awakens". This is not the first time a "Star Wars" project hits a rocky patch with its auteur, as previously "Han Solo" directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller were also let go due to "creative differences", while Gareth Edwards also almost lost control over "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" when it had to undergo extensive reshoots. (Photo source: StarWars.com)