According to reports from Puck News, Kathleen Kennedy, the esteemed president of Lucasfilm, is contemplating stepping down by the end of 2025. The veteran film producer, who has been at the helm of Lucasfilm since joining in 2012, is reportedly considering retirement as her contract nears its conclusion this year. Interestingly, Puck suggests that Kennedy had previously mulled over the idea of retiring in 2024 but chose to delay her decision. However, a source close to Kennedy, as cited by Variety, has dismissed these claims as "pure speculation." Contrarily, The Hollywood Reporter has also corroborated Puck's narrative, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.
Kennedy, handpicked by George Lucas to co-chair the studio, assumed the role of president following Lucas's departure. Under her leadership, Lucasfilm has navigated through the production of the sequel trilogy—comprising Star Wars Episodes 7-9—and spearheaded the franchise's transition into the streaming era. This era has been marked by acclaimed series such as The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Andor, Ahsoka, Skeleton Key, and more. While some films like "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" have been monumental successes, others, including "Solo: A Star Wars Story," have stirred debate and faced financial setbacks at the box office.
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Should Kennedy's departure come to fruition, it could cast uncertainty over several announced and rumored projects, such as new films from directors James Mangold, Taika Waititi, and actor Donald Glover. There's also an untitled Rey movie that has been announced but is yet to fully take shape. The upcoming slate of Star Wars projects includes "The Mandalorian & Grogu" and a new trilogy from Simon Kinberg.
Before her tenure at Lucasfilm, Kennedy co-founded Amblin Entertainment alongside Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall. Her portfolio boasts an array of iconic films including E.T., Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, and other 90s classics, earning her eight Academy Award nominations for Best Picture. Her legacy in the film industry is undeniable, and her potential departure from Lucasfilm marks the end of an era.
