Without George Lucas, we wouldn’t have the iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, the menacing Death Star, the enigmatic Boba Fett, or even the adorable Baby Yoda. The legendary filmmaker’s vision brought to life one of the most beloved franchises in cinematic history. Yet, while Lucas is the creative force behind the Star Wars universe, many other talented directors have left their mark on this galaxy far, far away.
As the Star Wars franchise continues to thrive with new projects on the horizon, let’s take a moment to appreciate the visionary directors who have shaped its legacy. This comprehensive list, arranged by release date, covers every director from the original trilogy to the most recent sequels and standalone films.
George Lucas: The Pioneer of a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977)
In 1977, George Lucas was a relatively unknown director with just two films under his belt: THX 1138 and American Graffiti. That changed dramatically with the release of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. Lucas’s groundbreaking film not only catapulted him and the cast into stardom but also revolutionized the movie industry. This space opera’s success established Lucas as a household name, a status he has maintained for nearly five decades.
Irvin Kershner: The Man Behind the Dark Sequel
Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Despite his deep involvement in the story and production, George Lucas chose not to direct The Empire Strikes Back, the sequel to his monumental hit. Instead, he handed the reins to Irvin Kershner, known for films like The Hoodlum Priest and Up the Sandbox. Kershner’s direction delivered one of the most celebrated sequels in cinematic history, though it wasn’t without challenges, including on-set clashes with Mark Hamill.
Richard Marquand: Closing the Original Trilogy
Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)
For the final chapter of the original trilogy, Lucas selected Richard Marquand, who emerged victorious over contenders like Steven Spielberg, David Lynch, and David Cronenberg. Marquand directed Return of the Jedi, a film that initially received mixed reactions but has grown in appreciation over the years. His direction brought a satisfying conclusion to the saga, despite initial controversies.
George Lucas: The Return to the Director’s Chair
Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999)
Two decades after stepping back from directing, George Lucas returned to helm the much-anticipated prequels, starting with The Phantom Menace. Released in 1999, this film reintroduced Star Wars to a new generation. While it faced criticism for elements like Jar Jar Binks, it also delivered memorable moments, including the iconic “Duel of the Fates” lightsaber battle.
Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones (2002)
Lucas continued his directorial duties with Attack of the Clones. Though initially met with mixed reviews, this second installment of the prequel trilogy has garnered more appreciation over time. Its elaborate plot and deeper exploration of the Clone Wars have become more appreciated as fans reflect on its contributions to the overall saga.
Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (2005)
The prequel trilogy culminated with Revenge of the Sith, once again directed by Lucas. This film, released in 2005, is noted for its dark tone and the dramatic transformation of Anakin Skywalker into Darth Vader. Its epic Mustafar duel remains one of the most intense and well-executed scenes in the Star Wars series.
Dave Filoni: Expanding the Universe
Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008)
Dave Filoni, a significant creative force in the Star Wars universe, made his directorial debut with the 2008 animated film The Clone Wars. This movie set the stage for the acclaimed TV series of the same name, expanding on the stories of Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi while introducing beloved characters like Ahsoka Tano. Filoni’s work on this project laid the groundwork for his continued influence on the franchise.
J.J. Abrams: Revitalizing the Saga
Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015)
In December 2015, J.J. Abrams brought Star Wars back to the big screen with The Force Awakens, the first live-action Star Wars film in a decade. Following Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, Abrams was chosen to direct the film that would kick off the sequel trilogy. The Force Awakens was a massive box office success, reintroducing the magic of Star Wars to a new generation and setting the stage for the future of the franchise.
Gareth Edwards: A Gritty War Story
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)
Gareth Edwards directed Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, the first standalone Star Wars film released in 2016. Edwards, known for his work on Godzilla, brought a gritty, war-focused perspective to the franchise. Rogue One tells the story of the rebel spies who stole the Death Star plans, highlighting their sacrifices and contributions to the galaxy’s future.
Rian Johnson: A Bold New Direction
Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi (2017)
Rian Johnson’s The Last Jedi is one of the most polarizing films in the Star Wars saga. Released in 2017, the film broke away from many traditional elements of the series, offering fresh perspectives and unexpected twists. Johnson’s bold approach sparked intense debate among fans but also brought new depth to the characters and the Star Wars universe.
Ron Howard: Stepping in to Save Solo
Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
Ron Howard joined the Star Wars franchise with Solo: A Star Wars Story, taking over from Phil Lord and Chris Miller. Released in 2018, the film explores the early adventures of Han Solo, played by Alden Ehrenreich. Despite its troubled production and mixed reception, Howard’s steady direction helped deliver a fun and action-packed installment in the Star Wars anthology.
J.J. Abrams: Bringing the Skywalker Saga to a Close
Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
J.J. Abrams returned to direct The Rise of Skywalker, the final installment of the sequel trilogy. Initially set to be directed by Colin Trevorrow, Abrams stepped in to complete the saga, bringing a sense of closure to the Skywalker story. Despite its mixed reviews and the lowest Rotten Tomatoes score among live-action Star Wars films, The Rise of Skywalker achieved significant box office success and remains a vital part of the Star Wars legacy.
The Future of Star Wars: Upcoming Projects
As we look forward to the future of Star Wars, several exciting projects are in the works, with new directors set to bring their unique visions to the galaxy far, far away. Upcoming films and series promise to explore new characters, eras, and stories, continuing the legacy of innovation and adventure that has defined Star Wars for over four decades.
Taika Waititi’s Star Wars Film
Academy Award-winning director Taika Waititi is set to bring his distinctive style to the Star Wars universe. Known for his work on Thor: Ragnarok and Jojo Rabbit, Waititi’s Star Wars project is highly anticipated, promising a fresh and potentially humorous take on the franchise. With his unique storytelling abilities, Waititi is expected to add a new layer of creativity to the Star Wars saga.
Patty Jenkins’ Rogue Squadron
Patty Jenkins, the director behind the successful Wonder Woman films, is set to helm Rogue Squadron. Announced for a 2023 release, this film will focus on the legendary starfighter squadron, exploring their daring missions and the pilots who fly them. Jenkins’ involvement brings a new level of excitement and anticipation, as she aims to deliver an exhilarating and character-driven story.
Rian Johnson’s New Trilogy
Despite the mixed reactions to The Last Jedi, Rian Johnson is reportedly developing a new Star Wars trilogy. This project is expected to explore different corners of the galaxy, introducing new characters and stories. Johnson’s return to the Star Wars universe signals a continued willingness to innovate and expand the franchise’s boundaries.
Kevin Feige’s Star Wars Project
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige is also developing a Star Wars film. Known for his role in creating the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Feige’s involvement suggests a significant and potentially game-changing addition to the Star Wars saga. While details are still under wraps, fans are eagerly anticipating how Feige will blend his expertise in epic storytelling with the rich lore of Star Wars.
Leslye Headland’s The Acolyte
Leslye Headland, co-creator of the critically acclaimed series Russian Doll, is developing The Acolyte, a new Star Wars series for Disney+. Set in the final days of the High Republic era, this series will explore dark-side powers and emerging threats in a previously unexplored timeline. Headland’s background in character-driven narratives and genre-bending storytelling promises a unique and intriguing addition to the Star Wars universe.
Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni’s Continued Influence
Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni have already made significant contributions to Star Wars with The Mandalorian, which has become a cultural phenomenon since its debut on Disney+. Their continued involvement in the franchise, including upcoming series like Ahsoka and The Book of Boba Fett, ensures that the spirit of Star Wars will remain vibrant and dynamic. Favreau and Filoni’s work highlights the potential for new and exciting stories within the established Star Wars framework.
Deborah Chow’s Obi-Wan Kenobi Series
Deborah Chow, who directed standout episodes of The Mandalorian, is set to helm the highly anticipated Obi-Wan Kenobi series. Ewan McGregor will reprise his role as the iconic Jedi Master, exploring his life between the events of Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. Chow’s direction is expected to bring depth and nuance to Obi-Wan’s character, offering fans a closer look at one of Star Wars’ most beloved heroes.
The Legacy of Star Wars Directors
The directors of the Star Wars films and series have each brought their unique vision and style to the franchise, contributing to its enduring popularity and success. From George Lucas’s pioneering work to the innovative approaches of modern filmmakers, these directors have expanded the Star Wars universe in countless ways. As new projects continue to develop, the legacy of these directors will remain an integral part of the Star Wars story.
George Lucas: The Visionary Architect
George Lucas’s impact on the film industry and popular culture is immeasurable. His creation of Star Wars revolutionized special effects, storytelling, and franchise building. Lucas’s pioneering vision continues to influence filmmakers and storytellers across genres, cementing his place as a legendary figure in cinema history.
Irvin Kershner and Richard Marquand: The Early Innovators
Irvin Kershner and Richard Marquand played crucial roles in shaping the original trilogy’s success. Kershner’s direction of The Empire Strikes Back added depth and complexity to the series, while Marquand’s work on Return of the Jedi provided a satisfying conclusion to the initial saga. Their contributions helped establish Star Wars as a beloved and enduring franchise.
The Modern Visionaries: J.J. Abrams, Rian Johnson, and More
The new generation of Star Wars directors, including J.J. Abrams, Rian Johnson, and Gareth Edwards, have expanded the franchise’s scope and introduced it to new audiences. Their innovative approaches and bold storytelling choices have reinvigorated the series, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal. As the Star Wars universe grows, these directors will be remembered for their pivotal roles in its evolution.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Directors of Star Wars
From George Lucas’s groundbreaking work to the contributions of modern filmmakers, the directors of Star Wars have each left an indelible mark on the franchise. Their collective efforts have created a rich and diverse tapestry of stories, characters, and worlds that continue to captivate audiences around the globe. As we look forward to the future of Star Wars, we celebrate the visionaries who have brought this beloved universe to life and eagerly anticipate the new adventures yet to come.
In the words of Yoda, “Always in motion is the future.” The Star Wars saga is far from over, with new stories and directors ready to take us on incredible journeys through the galaxy. May the Force be with them all.
Author Profile
Latest entries
TVMonday, 10 November 2025, 18:18Breaking Bad TV Moments That Completely Blew Our Minds
LifeMonday, 10 November 2025, 18:16Wedding Planning with matching theme and flowers
EntertainmentMonday, 10 November 2025, 18:15Celebrity Couples We Forget Are Married in Real Life
MoviesMonday, 10 November 2025, 15:00Lord of the Rings Characters who deserve more credit
