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J.J. Abrams Already Regrets Not Directing ‘Star Wars: Episode VIII’

J.J. Abrams is evidently already having second thoughts about his decision to step out of the director’s chair for the next “Star Wars” film.

Abrams’ lifelong friend Greg Grunberg told The Washington Post that he has never heard the director express regret in such great capacity.

“He read it and said something he never, ever says,” Grunberg, who plays X-Wing pilot Snap Wexley in “The Force Awakens,” told The Washington Post. “He said, ‘It’s so good, I wish I were making it.’ He may have said something one time on ‘Lost’ with Damon [Lindelof], but I never hear him express regret like that.”

Abrams’ successor is Rian Johnson, best known for his films “Brick” and “Looper.” The writer-director was given early cuts of “The Force Awakens” by Abrams to help ease the transition between the two directors.

Although no longer directing, Abrams will be staying on with the “Star Wars” franchise as an executive producer.

But Abrams isn’t the only person who has given a ringing endorsement for “Episode VIII’s” script. Daisy Ridley, who plays Rey in “The Force Awakens,” told Variety that the screenplay was good.

“It’s very good; very good,” she said.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is now playing in theaters, and “Episode VIII” is slated for May 26, 2017.

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