It’s official, the galaxy is his. In a statement released Friday night, Star Wars creator George Lucas endorsed the decision to bring on J.J. Abrams as director of the new Star Wars film, set for release in 2015. “He’s an ideal choice to direct the new Star Wars film and the legacy couldn’t be in better hands.” said Lucas, who is set to retire and hand off his beloved Star Wars empire. Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy confirmed the move in a separate statement release Friday night. Abrams himself, who directed Mission: Impossible III, says the opportunity is an “absolute honor.” “I may be even more grateful to George Lucas now than I was as a kid.”