Star Wars Episode VIII Is Delayed Until 2017

The galaxy isn't the only thing that's far far away...

You might want to put that stormtrooper costume back in the attic. Disney has just announced that the release of Star Wars: Episode VIII is delayed until December 2017. Nearly two years from now.

The next installment of the mega franchise - which signals a big comeback from Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and more badass force channelling from its breakout star Daisy Ridley (Rey) - was originally slated for December this year. This would follow the familiar once-a-year blockbuster pattern used by Lord Of The Rings, The Hunger Games and The Hobbit.

But it would appear that Team Star Wars have decided not to rush things. Disney has not explained the reason for the date change, but there has been speculation that the script has gone back for a rewrite.

Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens officially became the biggest film of all time when it premiered at the end of last year, pulling in more than £600 million in the first five weeks. It also made overnight stars of its two British, and previously under the radar, lead actors Daisy Ridley (Rey) and John Boyega (Finn).

With so much expectation and pressure riding on the second installment, it's perhaps understandable that the film, and its new Director Rian Johnson - taking over from JJ Abrams - need a little more time to get things just right.

Do good things come to those who wait? We'll just have to wait and see.