The highly-anticipated finale to the newest Star Wars trilogy has now finished principal photography, as announced by director J.J. Abrams. As director for both The Force Awakens and the as-yet-untitled Episode IX, Abrams has been a key player in this new trilogy and has cultivated great relationships with the cast, crew, and of course, fans. Abrams posted the following photo, showing the emotional impact that the series has had for him and actors John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, and Oscar Isaac.
It feels impossible, but today wrapped photography on Episode IX. There is no adequate way to thank this truly magical crew and cast. I’m forever indebted to you all. pic.twitter.com/138AprtFuZ
— JJ Abrams (@jjabrams) February 15, 2019
Production began in August 2018 in London’s Pinewood Studios, the massive soundstage studio where The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi also shot when not on location. The entire original cast from the first two films is returning, plus an appearance from Billy Dee Williams and post-humous Carrie Fisher.
This marks the end of an era, as it is the last film in the Skywalker family saga that began in 1977 with A New Hope. Of course, this is not the end of Star Wars content altogether. There is one more anthology film planned, in spin-off style following Rogue One and Solo, but the subject has not been revealed. Director of The Last Jedi, Rian Johnson, is also signed on to lead an entirely new trilogy with new characters and a new setting according to an update from Collider.
We’ll likely be getting more news during this year’s Star Wars Celebration on April 11 and San Diego Comic Con in late July. Both events are known for having major content releases such as posters, trailers, and announcements, so stay tuned.
Star Wars: Episode IX will take over theaters on December 20, 2019. Until then, we will be eagerly awaiting updates to get all the intel on this major trilogy finale.