Star Wars: Episode VIII will return to Ireland to film along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The news was confirmed by DisneyLucasfilm’s Vice President of Physical Production, Candice Campos, on Friday.
“The beauty of Skellig Michael in the final scene of The Force Awakens was stunning and we know the new locations along the Wild Atlantic Way will prove to be equally as beautiful in Star Wars: Episode VIII,” she said.
“We want to thank the people of Ireland for their warm welcome and continued support. Ireland has become an important part of Star Wars history.”
Irish Film Board Chief Executive James Hickey welcomed the return of the blockbuster.
“The Irish film industry has experienced much success this year on the back of major international awards and nominations for Irish films Room and Brooklyn,” he said.
“We believe that having Star Wars: Episode VIII film on location in Ireland will also help to build on this success, creating further opportunities and growth for the Irish film industry, resulting in increased levels of job creation, incoming tourists and foreign direct investment to Ireland.”
Directed by Rian Johnson, Episode VIII is due for release on 17 December, 2017.
Ceann Sibéal at the western tip of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry has reportedly been chosen as a location, according to RTÉ, as well as Malin Head in Donegal. Filming at Ceann Sibéal is expected to take place in the middle of May, with a number of hotels and self service guesthouses already booked in the vicinity.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ podcast – listen to the latest episode now!
