'Star Wars Episode VIII' update: Mark Hamill spotted on location in Ireland

(REUTERS/LUCASFILM/HANDOUT)First Order Stormtroopers in a clip from "Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens"

Luke Skywalker is returning to the "Star Wars" universe with the new sequel trilogy that starts with "Episode VII: The Force Awakens." With that movie all wrapped up with principal photography, the next film is already starting production.

County Kerry is one of the sets for the "Star Wars Episode VIII" shoot. This was revealed by The Irish Examiner, which reported that the cast and crew — with the special mention of Mark Hamill — were spotted in the Irish county, specifically at the rocky isle of Skellig Michael. This was also one of the locations for "Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens."

Unfortunately, the force was not with the "Star Wars" cast and crew earlier this week as the bad weather had them stopping principal photography for a time. It was mentioned in the report that the set had around 100 people involved, including the actor who plays Luke Skywalker.

As further proof of Hamill's return to the film, his son, Nathan, was also reported to be checked in at Waterville's Butler Arms Hotel. He and his two other siblings also joined their dad in "The Force Awakens" filming.

The arrival of a private jet at the Kerry Airport, the queue of four limousines, and the increased security presence at the seaside village had residents inquiring about the eighth "Star Wars" movie. However, Skellig Experience's John O'Sullivan explains that information will remain under a tight lid.

"They're asking questions but the information we have is limited because anyone involved locally has signed confidentiality contracts but we know that what's happening this week is geared for two years' time and the release of 'Star Wars Episode VIII,'" he says.

While "Star Wars Episode VIII" is still in production, the finishing touches to "Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens" are now being applied. Watch it when it hits the theaters on Dec. 18.

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