Eternals didn't strike a chord with some critics, but it has been a box office hit for Disney and Marvel Studios. Director Chloé Zhao, meanwhile, won an Oscar earlier this year for Nomadland, and is likely to be highly sought after as a filmmaker in Hollywood moving forward. As a result, we weren't exactly shocked by the recent report that she might take the helm of Kevin Feige's Star Wars movie.
Loki Head Writer Michael Waldron has been working on the screenplay, and while little to no details have found their way online about the direction the Marvel Studios boss plans to take this Galaxy Far, Far Away, fans are definitely still excited. Unfortunately, it seems Zhao won't actually be involved.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, "we've been hearing this one all week, but insiders insist that no, Chloé Zhao is not directing Kevin Feige's Star Wars movie, or any Star Wars movie."
This wouldn't be the first time the trades have debunked rumours that ultimately come to fruition (before inevitably running them as their own exclusives), but THR has a great team when it comes to movie scoops, so we're inclined to believe their report is accurate. It's a shame about Zhao, but given the way Eternals wraps up, we'd think a sequel is probably a priority for the director.
We'll see what the future holds in store for Zhao and this highly anticipated Star Wars movie, which some believe will take the place of Rogue Squadron after that was recently pushed from 2023. Either way, it seems this iconic franchise will remain out of theaters and on Disney+ for the time being.
Keep checking back here for the latest updates.