Kathleen Kennedy to Leave Lucasfilm After 13 Years

BURBANK, Calif. — Kathleen Kennedy, the President of Lucasfilm and a notable figure in the film industry, will step down from her role by the end of this year after leading the company for over a decade. Sources close to the matter have confirmed Kennedy’s decision, which comes as she prepares to turn 72 this June.

Initially, Kennedy had planned to exit her position in 2024, aligning her departure with the end of her contract. However, she opted for an additional year in her role after setting circumstances for an exit interview, according to industry insider reports.

Kennedy has been a pivotal force at Lucasfilm since its acquisition by the Walt Disney Company for $4 billion in October 2012. Under her leadership, the studio has produced numerous box office hits, grossing over $5 billion across seven Star Wars films, several spin-offs, and various Disney+ series.

Throughout her tenure, Kennedy has collaborated with a range of filmmakers, bringing in JJ Abrams for the highly successful “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and partnering with Tony Gilroy for “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” She also played a crucial role in establishing the Disney+ series, including the acclaimed “The Mandalorian.” However, her leadership has not been without challenges, including numerous canceled film projects due to creative differences.

Looking ahead, Kennedy remains involved in upcoming projects, including a new trilogy intended to continue the narrative beyond “The Rise of Skywalker,” as reported by Puck. Despite her impending departure from the company, Kennedy will oversee the development of these films.

As Kennedy moves on, questions arise regarding her succession and the future direction of Lucasfilm. Both Disney and Kennedy’s publicist have declined to comment on the report, which may prompt further discussions within the entertainment industry.

Since becoming Lucasfilm’s president, Kennedy has not only kept the iconic Star Wars franchise alive but has also expanded its presence across various platforms. As she prepares to conclude this chapter of her career, her legacy at Lucasfilm will undoubtedly be one of the most discussed among cinema enthusiasts and industry experts alike.