Kathleen Kennedy, the president of Lucasfilm, is reportedly set to step down by the end of 2025. According to Puck News, the seasoned film producer plans to retire once her contract concludes this year. Initially, Kennedy had contemplated retiring in 2024 but chose to delay her decision. While a source close to Kennedy told Variety that Puck's report is "pure speculation," The Hollywood Reporter has corroborated the story from Puck.
Since joining Lucasfilm in 2012, Kennedy was handpicked by George Lucas to co-chair the studio. Following Lucas's departure, she ascended to the role of president, steering the Star Wars franchise through a new era. Under her leadership, the franchise expanded with a sequel trilogy, including Star Wars Episodes 7-9, and ventured into streaming with successful series such as The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Andor, Ahsoka, Skeleton Key, and others. While some projects like "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" were box office successes, others, like "Solo: A Star Wars Story," were less financially successful and more divisive among fans.
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Kennedy's potential departure raises questions about the future of several announced and rumored Star Wars projects. These include new films directed by James Mangold, Taika Waititi, and Donald Glover, as well as an untitled Rey movie that has been slow to develop. Upcoming confirmed projects include "The Mandalorian & Grogu" and a new trilogy from Simon Kinberg.
Before her tenure at Lucasfilm, Kennedy co-founded Amblin Entertainment with Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall. Her illustrious career includes producing iconic films such as E.T., Jurassic Park, and Back to the Future, which earned her eight Academy Award nominations for Best Picture.
