'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Beats Adele, Taylor Swift & More For AP Performer of Year Award

Move over Adele, Amy Schumer, and Taylor Swift: there's a bigger performer in town. The coveted title of the Associated Press' Performer of the Year award was just announced, and it's gone to the biggest film of the year: Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Voters for the award were asked to consider who held the most influence in culture and entertainment this year. The film, which has not even been out for an entire week yet, was given the award. Its major box office haul, awards buzz, and excellent reviews from critics and fans alike no doubt contributed to the influence of the film.

The film has some people estimating that its box office gross could stagger past the $3 billion mark, which would certainly make the film the biggest box office performer of the year.

Of the win, director J.J. Abrams told the AP, "Personally, it's been three years of feeling privileged to be part of something that's bigger than all of us. This accolade is very much appreciated and no exception to that feeling."

"It's funny," continues Abrams. "I've spent the last few years with everyone asking me how I am dealing with the pressure. The truth is that anything that happens at this point is icing on a cake that I'm just happy came out of the oven."

According to The Wrap, the film bested out a long list of potential winners: Taylor Swift, Amy Schumer, Jon Stewart, Taraji P. Henson, Netflix shows, Jennifer Lawrence, Viola Davis and the Kardashian clan.

Star Wars joins a long list of performers who have won the accolade, which includes stars like Adele, Taylor Swift, Jennifer Lawrence, Lady Gaga, Tina Fey and Betty White. Last year, another box office hit took the title when Disney's Frozen was named Performer of the Year.