J.J. Abrams turned down Star Wars Episode 7

‘Lost’ and ‘Star Trek’ helmer J.J. Abrams reportedly turned down the chance the direct Disney’s new ‘Star Wars’ film ‘Episode 7’.

In an interview with Empire, Abrams revealed that he had initial discussions about taking the reins on the sci-fi sequel.

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He said: "There were the very early conversations and I quickly said that because of my loyalty to ‘Star Trek’, and also just being a fan [of ‘Star Wars’], I wouldn't even want to be involved in the next version of those things.”

"I declined any involvement very early on. I'd rather be in the audience not knowing what was coming, rather than being involved in the minutiae of making them."

Abrams’ own space-set sequel ‘Star Trek Into Darkness’ is released next year, and studio Paramount will hope further installments will follow - another consideration for Abrams.

"I guess the franchises could go up against each other, but I'm not thinking that far ahead!" Abrams said.

"I'm a huge fan of ‘Star Wars’, ‘Empire’ and ‘Jedi’, and the idea of the world continuing is exciting and will be amazing. Kathy Kennedy is a friend and there are no smarter producers. It's in great hands."

Kennedy is head of LucasFilm, which was sold by George Lucas to Disney in October for £2.5 billion.

Disney immediately green-lit a seventh ‘Star Wars’ film, and there has been intense online speculation as to who will land the coveted gig.

So far the favourite must be Matthew Vaughn, after actor Jason Flemyng appeared to accidently confirm that the ‘Kick-Ass’ helmer had been hired in an interview.

With the new ‘Star Wars’ set for release in 2015, production has to begin soon. Expect a major announcement on the project early next year.