J.j. Abrams - Star Wars release date to be pushed back?

Star Wars release date to be pushed back?

J.J. Abrams hasn't committed to a 2015 'Star Wars: Episode VII' release.

The 'Star Trek' filmmaker was confirmed to direct the new Disney instalment of the sci-fi adventure last week (25.01.13), but is allegedly likely to require the planned release date to be pushed back because of his busy schedule, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

As well as several TV pilots for next autumn, the prolific producer and filmmaker is tied up with 'Star Trek: Into Darkness's May release and is committed to producing the next chapters of the 'Mission Impossible' and 'Star Trek' franchises for Paramount.

J.J. - who is known for taking his time with projects - recently said of his enviable new role: ''It really is an incredible thing. It's obviously way too early to talk specifics, but I'm excited to actually start it.''

He described taking over the franchise from creator George Lucas as ''wildly surreal'' and is looking forward to working with writer Michael Arndt to develop the script.

Disney and Lucasfilm's new boss Kathleen Kennedy said in a statement: ''It's very exciting to have J.J. aboard leading the charge as we set off to make a new 'Star Wars' movie. J.J. is the perfect director to helm this. 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.''