George Lucas: J.J. Abrams is the “Ideal” Director for Star Wars 7

Star Wars 7 is set to hit theaters in 2015

George Lucas is officially passing the lightsaber.

After J.J. Abrams signed on to direct the upcoming Star Wars 7 recently, the Star Wars creator couldn't contain his excitement about the famed filmmaker taking on the project.

J.J. Abrams directing Star Wars 7

"I've consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller," Lucas said in Lucasfilm's statement confirming Abrams as the director. "He's an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn't be in better hands."

And he isn't the only one excited.

Abrams, who has been busy directing the upcoming Star Trek: Into Darkness, is equally yoked about the opportunity, saying "to be a part of the next chapter of the Star Wars saga, to collaborate with Kathy Kennedy and this remarkable group of people, is an absolute honor."

"I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid," Abrams went on.

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Lucasfilm co-chair Kathy Kennedy also raved about the Lost creator, saying it is "exciting" to have Abrams on board for the highly anticipated film.

"J.J. is the perfect director to helm this," Kennedy said. "Beyond having such great instincts as a filmmaker, he has an intuitive understanding of this franchise. He understands the essence of the Star Wars experience, and will bring that talent to create an unforgettable motion picture."

Star Wars 7 is set to hit theaters in 2015.

So, tell us...are you even more excited about Star Wars 7 now that Abrams is locked in to direct it? Sound off in the comments.

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