Lucasfilm names new 'Star Wars' bosses as Kathleen Kennedy prepares exit
For more than a decade, one executive's name has always been in the limelight since the modern evolution of the 'Star Wars' franchise came to fruition. Be it billion-dollar box office hits or its smooth transition into streaming platforms, she shaped an entire era of intergalactic storytelling. Now, after nearly 14 years at the helm, Kathleen Kennedy is preparing to step aside. Her move will set the stage for a major power shift at Lucasfilm and usher in a new generation of 'Star Wars' leadership.
Lucasfilm has confirmed that Kathleen Kennedy will step down as president in early 2026. The baton will be passed to Dave Filoni, who will serve as president and chief creative officer, and Lynwen Brennan, who will serve as co-president. They will report to Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman. The plan had been quietly set in motion for nearly two years. Now, it has finally solidified, marking one of the most significant leadership changes in the history of Lucasfilm.
While she will step down from day-to-day operations, Kennedy is not leaving the galaxy far, far away. She will remain active as a producer on Lucasfilm's upcoming theatrical projects, including 'The Mandalorian and Grogu', and 'Star Wars: Starfighter'. As per an announcement by Disney, for the Lucasfilm president, her tenure was "a true privilege." Kennedy added that she is looking forward to continuing to develop films and television with longtime collaborators and fresh creative voices.
Filoni became part of the Lucasfilm family in 2005, as he worked closely with George Lucas as a director in 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars'. He gradually became the franchise's most trusted steward. Filoni has served as a producer, director, and writer in projects like 'The Mandalorian', 'Ahsoka', and 'Star Wars Rebels'. It helped him earn Emmy nominations and the respect of fans for his deep command of 'Star Wars' lore. While Brennen will be responsible for operational continuity. He joined the digital studio Industrial Light & Magic in 1999 and rose through the ranks to become Lucasfilm’s general manager. In 2024, she was finally promoted to president and general manager.
As Kathleen Kennedy's departure has come to light, a tenure defined by commercial success and constant scrutiny is finally coming to a close. Under her leadership, films like 'Star Wars: The Force Awakens' and 'Rogue One' each grossed more than $1 billion at the worldwide box office. Meanwhile, the sequel trilogy collectively generated nearly $4 billion at the box office. Kennedy also oversaw the launch of Disney+ era series, including 'The Mandalorian', 'Andor', 'Obi-Wan Kenobi', and 'Ahsoka'. As the franchise got redefined for TV, it earned more than 90 Emmy nominations through the years across live-action and animated series.
Beyond Lucasfilm, Kennedy's producing legacy spans decades, including films recognized as classics such as 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial', 'Jurassic Park', 'Schindler’s List', and 'Indiana Jones'. As she is transitioning back to her first love, i.e., full-time producing, Lucasfilm is also ready to welcome a new chapter, with Filoni handling the reins as a creative director and Brennan steering the business.
