The world of Star Wars has undergone significant changes over the past few years, but one constant remains: the noticeable absence of Rian Johnson from discussions about the franchise’s future. Johnson, who wrote and directed Star Wars: The Last Jedi, was initially slated to create a new trilogy of films. However, following the polarizing response to The Last Jedi, these projects were put on the backburner. Since then, Johnson has focused on the murder mystery genre, achieving great success with Knives Out and currently working on its third installment, Wake Up Dead Man, as well as the second season of Poker Face on Peacock.

While Rian Johnson’s career is thriving outside of Star Wars, the franchise could potentially benefit from his return. As Star Wars continues to face challenges, particularly in its film releases, fans often speculate about the possibility of Johnson reprising his role. In a recent interview, Johnson expressed that he sometimes thinks about returning to the Star Wars universe. “I kind of went down the murder mystery rabbit hole—I’m focused on making other stuff,” he stated. “But that wouldn’t rule out it happening down the line. If I get back in the Star Wars universe someday, I’d be the happiest person.”

Although a potential Johnson trilogy may not align with current Star Wars plans, his return would be welcomed by many. The next two years will see the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter, with other projects in development, including a trilogy by Simon Kinberg and films by James Mangold, Dave Filoni, and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. While it’s uncertain whether Johnson will return to Star Wars in the near future, fans remain hopeful that it may happen someday.

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