While we know next to nothing about the developing Star Wars: Episode VII other than who’s writing (Michael Arndt), producing (Kathleen Kennedy), and directing it (J.J. Abrams), it appears that at least one detail about the project has become clear in this early production phase. When Abrams was first announced as the director of the new Star Wars film, my immediate thought was, “It sure would be neat to hear composer Michael Giacchino’s take on a Star Wars score.” Given that Abrams and Giacchino have been close collaborators since their days on Alias, many wondered whether the director would stick with Giacchino as his composer or if he’d bring in Star Wars staple John Williams to handle the score.

A couple of months ago Williams revealed that he hoped to be asked back to score the new Star Wars films, and now Abrams has chipped in with his two cents saying that he believes Williams will indeed return to the franchise. Hit the jump to read on.

Speaking at a press conference for Star Trek Into Darkness in Berlin (via CBM), Abrams revealed that Williams will likely be handling the score for Star Wars:

“[Michael Giacchino] is truly one of the most influential members of our crew, and I think this score, he really outdid himself. Again, for Star Wars, it’s very early days, but I believe that, going forward, John Williams will be doing that film, because he was there long before I was.”

Fair enough. While I was really hoping to see what Giacchino would do within the Star Wars universe, it makes sense that Abrams would want to bring Williams back for the new film. It would be a bridge between the new trilogy and the previous six films, and if the rumors of the original cast returning are any indication, then Star Wars: Episode VII sounds like it will be very closely connected to George Lucas’ films.

What do you think, readers? Is Williams returning a must or would you rather hear a new take on the score for the new films?

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