During Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019, Episode IX director J.J. Abrams revealed that the final installment in the Skywalker Saga doesn’t pick up immediately after The Last Jedi.
“The movie doesn’t pick up immediately after the last film – some time has gone by,” said Abrams. “This is an adventure that the group goes on together. One of the great things about the movie is the dynamic between the characters. They are just the most wonderful together. That’s the thing I’m most excited for you all to see.”
Abrams also showed off an image of the core cast outside of the Millennium Falcon that supposedly takes place very early in the movie. The image showcases Rey, Finn, Poe, BB-8, Chewbacca and C-3PO in a forested area. Upon first look, R2D2 appears to be missing.
Source: IGN.com Star Wars Episode IX Doesn't Pick Up Immediately After Last Jedi