‘Star Wars: Episode 7′ Director J.J. Abrams Reveals the Reason Behind the Writer Swap

A couple weeks ago, Lucasfilm decided to change things up for its highly anticipated 'Star Wars: Episode 7' by switching out writer Michael Arndt for the combined efforts of J.J. Abrams and 'Empire Strikes' back writer Lawrence Kasdan on the screenplay. While this swap threw fans into a frenzy over whether or not this meant the film was in trouble, the director recently broke his silence over the matter.

Speaking during a media conference call, as reported by Deadline, Abrams said, "It became clear that given the time frame and given the process and the way the thing was going that working with Larry in this way was going to get us where we need to be and when we needed to be."

A report surfaced that Lucasfilm's Kathleen Kennedy approached Disney CEO Bob Iger to request the 'Star Wars: Episode 7' release date be changed from 2015 to 2016 in order to offer the crew more time on the script and overall production. Disney, however, ultimately refused, and the film, which kicks off an all-new trilogy, is still slated to start production in the UK early next year.

Although Abrams says "working with Larry Kasdan, especially on a 'Star Wars' movie is kind of unbeatable," he has nothing but praise to give on Arndt's behalf. "Working with Michael was a wonderful experience and I couldn’t be a bigger fan of his or adore him more. He’s a wonderful guy and was incredibly helpful in the process. ... [This change] doesn’t preclude working with Michael again in the future. He is one of the best writers around."

Various name (almost too many to keep track) have been rumored to have been up for roles in 'Star Wars: Episode 7.' While Lucasfilm has yet to officially announce any additions, original 'Star Wars' director George Lucas stated that Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) and Harrison Ford (Han Solo) will all be back for the next chapter. However, Saoirse Ronan, who confirmed she did indeed audition for a role, stated that she didn't get the part.