The Force is strong with J.J. Abrams — strong enough to bring the Force Awakens director back to Star Wars to direct and co-write (with Chris Terrio) Episode IX.

Abrams’ return was announced Tuesday on the official Star Wars website, with a release and statement from Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy.

“With The Force Awakens, J.J. delivered everything we could have possibly hoped for, and I am so excited that he is coming back to close out this trilogy,” Kennedy said.

Abrams also co-wrote The Force Awakens with franchise vet Lawrence Kasdan.

Episode IX is due in theaters May 2019.

Read more: http://mashable.com/2017/09/12/star-wars-ix-jj-abrams-director/