‘Star Wars Episode 7′ – Did J.J. Abrams Turn Down the Directing Job?
The question of who will direct the next 'Star Wars' still lingers quite maddeningly; while we would ideally be compiling a shortlist of contenders, we mostly collate who has expressed disinterest or denied involvement. One of those names is J.J. Abrams, who weeks ago stated in no uncertain terms that he didn't want the massive undertaking.
But did you know that he was evidently offered the job? A few choice quotes from the 'Star Trek' director indicates that he could have been the captain of two different space sagas. Jump after the break to learn more.
In the latest issue of Empire (with a hat tip to ComingSoon.net), Abrams states that he indeed had a chat with Lucasfilm about directing 'Episode 7', but he quickly told them "thanks, but no thanks."
...there were the very early conversations and I quickly said that because of my loyalty to Star Trek, and also just being a fan, I wouldn't even want to be involved in the next version of those things. I declined any involvement very early on. I'd rather be in the audience not knowing what was coming, rather than being involved in the minutiae of making them."
Abrams has stated previously that the responsibility of directing a new 'Star Wars' is far more daunting in his mind than 'Star Trek', since he didn't have the same childhood affection for the latter. And as you've just read, his stance appears to be that he's more excited to see 'Episode 7' with the rest of us fans than helm it. He went on to lavish praise on the original trilogy and the producer of future installments.
I guess the franchises could go up against each other, but I'm not thinking that far ahead! I'm a huge fan of Star Wars, Empire and Jedi, and the idea of the world continuing is exciting and will be amazing. Kathy Kennedy is a friend and there are no smarter producers. It's in great hands."
All of this is to say, if you hadn't completely ruled out Abrams as an 'Episode 7' candidate, you can feel free to do so now.