Rian Johnson has publicly denied reports that he declined the opportunity to direct Star Wars: Episode IX, adding clarity to speculation around the conclusion of the recent trilogy. The Rian Johnson Star Wars Episode IX claim surfaced following the departure of original director Colin Trevorrow, who was replaced by J.J. Abrams after Lucasfilm was left searching for a successor.
The Sequence of Events Leading to Director Changes
Colin Trevorrow was initially responsible for writing and directing Episode IX, with his script—titled ‘Duel of the Fates’—now available online for those interested in his vision. However, Trevorrow was ultimately removed from the project, prompting Lucasfilm to return to J.J. Abrams, who had directed Episode VII.
This change reignited debate among Star Wars fans regarding the creative direction of the sequel trilogy. The film that was eventually produced by Abrams led to mixed reactions, with some expressing disappointment over its execution and story choices when compared to the previous installments.
Claims of Johnson Refusing Episode IX and His Response
Recent reporting by The Hollywood Reporter stated that Johnson was offered the director’s chair for Episode IX due to the commercial success of The Last Jedi, but declined the role. The report said he, “politely declined,” after facing significant backlash from a portion of the Star Wars audience during and after Episode VIII.
In response to the intense fan reactions that followed his film, Johnson reflected on navigating both criticism and praise within the Star Wars community.
“Before I made the Star Wars movie, when I was very, very active on Twitter, if someone said anything mean about me, I felt like I had to fix that,”
Rian Johnson, Director
“Having grown up as a Star Wars fan, I think the love and the hate are two sides of the same coin, and it’s all passion for what the thing is. That doesn’t mean it’s easy to deal with when it’s coming at you in a personal way.”
Rian Johnson, Director
Soon after the article was published, Rian Johnson turned to the social media network BSky to address the story, stating,
“That’s incorrect in the article, actually – I never was going to do it and never turned it down.”
Rian Johnson, Director
Significance of Johnson’s Statement and Ongoing Debate
Johnson’s categorical denial challenges the narrative about behind-the-scenes decisions at Lucasfilm and reflects the polarized atmosphere that has surrounded Star Wars sequels. His clarification reopens discussions within the fan base about how different filmmakers might have concluded the Skywalker saga if given the opportunity. Fans continue to debate how Johnson’s vision might have shaped the final chapter after The Last Jedi, especially considering the strong opinions about episodes VIII and IX and the divisive creative paths taken by both Johnson and Abrams.
The renewed focus on Rian Johnson Star Wars Episode IX rumors also highlights ongoing tensions among fans, Lucasfilm, and the media around the stewardship of iconic franchises. While Johnson maintains he was neither slated to direct nor rejected the film, the debate underscores the challenges faced by directors in the ever-passionate world of Star Wars storytelling.
