A new era awaits Star Wars fans as Simon Kinberg, seasoned writer and producer, takes on a monumental role in shaping the next chapter of the iconic sci-fi universe, per Deadline. Kinberg, already a trusted force in the Star Wars realm, signed on to write and produce an ambitious trilogy for Lucasfilm, stepping up as the primary creator for what many hope will redefine the galaxy far, far away. Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy also joins as producer, overseeing a project that could open the door to fresh characters, groundbreaking narratives, and surprising connections to familiar Star Wars lore.
Reports confirm this trilogy is not intended to continue the Skywalker Saga, which spanned Episodes I through IX and became a pop culture phenomenon. Instead, Kinberg’s trilogy aims to expand the Star Wars landscape, featuring original storylines that might include references or cameos without directly linking back to the Skywalker arc. Despite fan speculation that these could become Episodes X through XII, Lucasfilm insiders clarified that the films would launch an entirely new saga, separating it from the events and characters of previous episodes. Kinberg's trilogy joins other high-profile projects currently brewing, including ones from James Mangold, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Taika Waititi, and Donald Glover.
A Veteran Storyteller Across Major Franchises
Kinberg isn’t new to crafting stories for high-stakes universes. The writer-producer’s strong Star Wars roots began with co-creating Star Wars: Rebels alongside Dave Filoni, bringing a beloved animated series to life and immersing viewers in Star Wars lore for four successful seasons. His Star Wars expertise continued as a consultant for The Force Awakens, helping to shape the blockbuster’s return to theaters after Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm. Kinberg’s experience with sci-fi and fantasy franchises, combined with a knack for crafting emotionally resonant stories, puts him in an ideal position to bring the new Star Wars saga to life.
Beyond Star Wars, Kinberg is a veteran in the franchise arena, having worked extensively on X-Men films, the Deadpool series, and Ridley Scott’s The Martian. He also produced Kenneth Branagh’s Agatha Christie trilogy, which kicked off with Murder on the Orient Express, and co-wrote Sherlock Holmes, starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law. His recent projects include producing Paramount’s The Running Man remake, directed by Edgar Wright and starring Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, and Lee Pace, as well as producing an upcoming Star Trek film. This wide-ranging experience across cinematic universes suggests Kinberg’s readiness to craft a compelling new saga for Star Wars fans.
With Kinberg on board, the future of the franchise looks poised to explore fresh adventures, deeper character stories, and perhaps even a surprising twist or two that fans won’t want to miss.