Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy Steps Down After 14 Years
Kathleen Kennedy is stepping aside as president of Lucasfilm after 14 years leading the studio behind the Star Wars franchise, one of the most successful in Hollywood history.
The company announced on Thursday that Kennedy, who was personally chosen by Star Wars creator George Lucas to head the studio, will transition into a full-time producing role.
During her tenure, Kennedy spearheaded the revival of the Star Wars universe following Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012. Under her leadership, the studio released five major films that collectively grossed more than $5 billion worldwide. These included the sequel trilogy starring Daisy Ridley and Adam Driver, which shattered box office records in the United States.
However, her time at the helm was not without challenges. While The Force Awakens proved to be a massive commercial success, Kennedy also oversaw the franchise’s first box office disappointment with Solo: A Star Wars Story.
Beyond the big screen, Kennedy expanded Star Wars into the streaming space with series such as The Mandalorian, Ahsoka and the critically acclaimed Andor, all produced for Disney+.
She also pushed for more diverse representation within the franchise, introducing stronger female leads and characters from varied backgrounds. While praised by some, the move drew criticism from sections of the fanbase who felt social issues were being injected into the saga.
Lucasfilm also faced backlash for sidelining long-established storylines from novels and comics to make way for new narratives, a decision that sparked debate among longtime followers.
Dave Filoni, a veteran of the studio’s animated projects, has been appointed president and chief creative officer. He will work alongside Lynwen Brennan, who becomes co-president. Filoni credited Kennedy for driving what he described as the “greatest expansion” of Star Wars storytelling.
Despite stepping down from the top role, Kennedy will remain actively involved at Lucasfilm. She is set to produce upcoming films including The Mandalorian and Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter, which will feature actor Ryan Gosling.
Reflecting on her time in charge, Kennedy said it had been “a true privilege” to lead the studio.
“I’m excited to continue developing films and television with both longtime collaborators and fresh voices who represent the future of storytelling,” she added.
Kennedy’s departure marks the end of a significant era for Lucasfilm as the studio prepares for its next chapter under new leadership.
