Disney CEO details next 'Star Wars,' 'Cars' and 'Incredibles' sequels

In this file film publicity image released by Disney-Pixar, animated characters Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Finn McMissile, are shown in a scene from Cars 2 (AP Photo/Disney/Pixar, File)

LOS ANGELES -- The new "Star Wars" has an official timeline and one confirmed returning character: robot R2-D2.

Director J.J. Abrams will begin shooting in May on "Star Wars: Episode VII," which is set three decades after 1983's "Return of the Jedi," Disney CEO Bob Iger said Tuesday.

Speaking at the company's annual shareholder's meeting in Portland, Ore., Iger said the movie would feature "some very familiar faces along with a trio of new, young leads." Abrams has a penchant for secrecy, and Iger said R2-D2 was the only "official cast member" he would announce.

"Episode VII" is set for release in December 2015.

Iger also said Pixar plans a third "Cars" movie and a sequel to 2004's "The Incredibles."