Star Wars: Episode VIII has started filming, Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed during an investor call. Principal photography was delayed along with the film, which opens December 15, 2017.

In addition, Iger said that "production of Episode IX, a 2019 release, has also begun.” Presumably he is referring to pre-production or the opening of the Episode IX offices, and not actual shooting on the picture.

“Filming of Rogue One is virtually completed and we absolutely love what we’ve seen so far." Iger also stated, while adding that "EA's launch of Star Wars Battlefront was the biggest video game release in Star Wars history."

The sequel to The Force Awakens is rumored to have two female leads, although Orphan Black star Tatiana Maslany appears to be out of the running. That leaves two other notable possibilities we know of -- Gina Rodriguez and Olivia Cook -- potentially taking on a new role. Concussion's Gugu Mbatha-Raw is also said to be up for the film.

According to Finn actor John Boyega, Star Wars: Episode VIII will be darker than The Force Awakens, with Finn having a more "physical" role. The story will focus on the Skywalker family, so much so that Prequel Trilogy star Hayden Christensen is rumored to return as Anakin Skywalker.