J.J. Abrams is returning to write and direct 'Star Wars: Episode IX'

J.J. Abrams is officially making a triumphant return to the "Star Wars" franchise after writing and directing 2015's "The Force Awakens."

Last week, Lucasfilm announced that Colin Trevorrow ("Jurassic World," "Safety Not Guaranteed"), was out as the director of "Episode IX," after mutally deciding to part ways. There was no word of who would replace him.

On Tuesday, StarWars.com announced that J.J. Abrams will write and direct the third and final film in the sequel trilogy. Rian Johnson wrote and directed the second film, "The Last Jedi," which hits theaters December 16. According to Deadline, Johnson passed on replacing Trevorrow.

"With 'The Force Awakens', J.J. delivered everything we could have possibly hoped for, and I am so excited that he is coming back to close out this trilogy," said Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy.

NOW WATCH: Here's why people are afraid of clowns - and what you can do to get over it