"I've consistently been impressed with J.J. as a filmmaker and storyteller," Lucas said in Lucasfilm's statement confirming Abrams as the director. "He's an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn't be in better hands."

And he isn't the only one excited.

Abrams, who has been busy directing the upcoming Star Trek: Into Darkness, is equally yoked about the opportunity, saying "to be a part of the next chapter of the Star Wars saga, to collaborate with Kathy Kennedy and this remarkable group of people, is an absolute honor."

"I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid," Abrams went on.