Disney has appointed Spider‑Man director Jon Watts to helm the opening film of Simon Kinberg’s new Star Wars Skywalker saga, marking a fresh creative direction.

Disney selected Jon Watts to direct the opening film of Simon Kinberg’s new Star Wars trilogy, a move confirmed by a Disney spokesperson on Tuesday.

Background

The upcoming trilogy will expand the Skywalker Saga, the franchise’s core narrative that began with "A New Hope" in 1977. Kinberg, a veteran producer of the franchise, will oversee the three‑film arc.

Jon Watts' credentials

Watts rose to prominence directing the recent Spider‑Man franchise reboot. His work includes:

• Spider‑Man: Homecoming (2017)
• Spider‑Man: Far From Home (2019)
• Spider‑Man: No Way Home (2021)

He has been praised for blending character‑driven storytelling with large‑scale action, qualities Disney hopes to translate to the Star Wars universe.

Implications for the saga

By appointing a director known for superhero cinema, Disney signals a desire to attract a broader audience while maintaining the franchise’s mythic tone. The first film is slated to begin production later this year, with a release window targeted for 2027.

Industry analysts said the choice could refresh the series after mixed responses to recent entries. "Watts brings a proven track record of balancing humor and spectacle," one analyst noted.

Disney has not disclosed the film’s title, plot details, or casting decisions. The studio said further information will be released as the project progresses.

Fans of both franchises expressed excitement on social media, with many hoping Watts will inject fresh energy into the saga’s concluding chapters.