JJ Abrams regrets not directing 'Star Wars: Episode VIII'

LOS ANGELES: "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" director JJ Abrams liked the script of "Episode VIII" so much that he is sad he will not be directing it.

Filmmaker's longtime friend, actor Greg Grunberg said, "He (Abrams) said something he never, ever says" when reading the script: It's "so good," he wished he was the one directing the movie!

"I never hear him express regret like that," he added.

Grunberg starred in Abrams' TV dramas "Alias" and "Felicity". To

Not directing but Abrams' will serve as the executive producer on the next Star Wars.

"Looper" helmer Rian Johnson is directing Episode VIII, which is slated for 2017 release.

Also Read: 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' review: Hits the right notes & won't disappoint fans