How will Game of Thrones showrunners David Benioff and D. B. Weiss follow up finishing one of the most successful TV shows of all time? By joining the Star Wars universe.

The Primetime Emmy Award-winning writing and producing duo are making the jump from the World of Westeros to a galaxy far, far away in order to create brand-new films set within the Star Wars universe.

These movies will be completely separate from the Skywalker Saga currently expected to conclude in Star Wars Episode IX, and are also unconnected to Rian Johnson's upcoming trilogy set in "a corner of the galaxy that Star Wars lore has never before explored".

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"In the summer of 1977 we travelled to a galaxy far, far away, and we've been dreaming of it ever since," David Benioff and D. B. Weiss said on Tuesday (6 February).

"We are honoured by the opportunity, a little terrified by the responsibility, and so excited to get started as soon as the final season of Game of Thrones is complete."

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Bear Grylls//Digital Spy

Benioff and Weiss are going to have more time to devote to these new Star Wars movies because they have no involvement with five Game of Thrones prequel spin-offs currently being developed at HBO. However, they'll be busy for the time being getting Thrones' final season ready to air next year.

The duo had also been working on an alternate history Civil War drama for HBO called Confederate, but not much has been heard about that project since its slavery theme sparked a huge backlash last summer.

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Bear Grylls//Digital Spy

Of recruiting the Game of Thrones writers to Star Wars, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy said on Tuesday (February 6): "David and Dan are some of the best storytellers working today.

"Their command of complex characters, depth of story and richness of mythology will break new ground and boldly push Star Wars in ways I find incredibly exciting."

There are no storyline details or release dates set for this new Star Wars film series yet.

From: Digital Spy
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Justin Harp

Night News Editor

Justin has been with Digital Spy since 2010, and in that time, has covered countless major news events for DS from the US. 

He has worked previously as both a reporter and sub editor for the brand, prior to taking on the position of Night News Editor in 2016. 

Over more than a decade, he has interviewed a wide-ranging group of public figures, from comedian Steve Coogan to icons from the Star Trek universe, cast members from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and reality stars from numerous Real Housewives cities and the Below Deck franchise. As a US contributor to Digital Spy, Justin has also been on the ground to cover major pop culture events like the Star Wars Celebration and the D23 Expo.