The hugely-anticipated sci-fi sequel Star Wars: Episode VII has had a change of writers following the departure of Michael Arndt.

The Oscar-winning screenwriter of Little Miss Sunshine and Toy Story 3 has left the project with director JJ Abrams and Star Wars consultant Lawrence Kasdan taking over script duties.

Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy gave her perspective of the news.

“There are very few people who fundamentally understand the way a Star Wars story works like Larry, and it is nothing short of incredible to have him even more deeply involved in its return to the big screen. JJ of course is an incredible storyteller in his own right. Michael Arndt has done a terrific job bringing us to this point and we have an amazing filmmaking and design team in place already prepping for production.”

Abrams is already directing the seven installment of the renowned sci-fi series but is gaining experienced support from Kasdan, who previously co-wrote The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983).

Episode VII is still scheduled for a summer release in 2015.