While we’re still several months away from the December 18th release of Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens, more details continue to emerge regarding its sequel.

The latest comes directly from Benecio Del Toro, who confirms he’ll be playing the villain in Episode VIII. Del Toro shared the news in an interview with Spanish radio station RAC 1 (via Slash Film), adding that production for the film will begin next March.



The only other actors confirmed for Episode VIII are Daisy Ridley and Oscar Isaac, both of who will make their debut in Episode VII. Earlier this week, The Wrap revealed some of the names being eyed for the film’s female lead, including Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin), Tatiana Maslany (Orphan Black), and Olivia Cooke (Me and Earl and the Dying Girl).

Rian Johnson (Looper) has been hired to write and direct the film, which is due in theaters May 26th, 2017.