Kathleen Kennedy to Retire as Lucasfilm President: A New Era for Star Wars
Image credits: Jesse Grant/Getty Images
Kathleen Kennedy, the president of Lucasfilm, has informed Disney and her associates that she will be retiring by the end of 2025, according to recent reports. This decision comes after years of speculation and marks a significant change for the Star Wars franchise, which has been under her leadership for 13 years. Kennedy, who will be 72 in June, has had a storied career in the film industry, with collaborations including Raiders of the Lost Ark and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.
During her tenure at Lucasfilm, Kennedy has overseen the development and production of several Star Wars films, including the sequel trilogy, as well as two standalone films, Rogue One and Solo. She has also been instrumental in the launch of several live-action Disney+ series, including The Mandalorian. However, her leadership has not been without controversy, with some fans and critics expressing disappointment with the direction of the franchise under her guidance.
Some of the notable projects that Kennedy has been involved in include the Star Wars sequel trilogy, which includes The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker. She has also overseen the development of several other Star Wars projects, including Rogue One and Solo, as well as the live-action Disney+ series The Mandalorian and Andor. Additionally, Kennedy has been involved in the production of other films, such as Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.
Upcoming Star Wars projects include:
- The Mandalorian and Grogu, directed by Jon Favreau, due out May 22, 2026
- Andor, which returns for a second season in April
- Other shows and films that are currently in development, although details have not been officially announced
Kennedy's departure will no doubt have a significant impact on the future of the Star Wars franchise, and fans will be watching with interest to see what changes are made under new leadership. With a career spanning over four decades, Kennedy has left an indelible mark on the film industry, and her legacy will continue to be felt for years to come. As the Star Wars franchise looks to the future, one thing is certain - Kathleen Kennedy's retirement marks the end of an era, and the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for the beloved franchise.
kathleen kennedy lucasfilm war star president ark terrestrial mandalorian solo
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