Is Kathleen Kennedy Leaving Lucasfilm? A Look at the Rumors & Facts
Published On: February 27th, 2025
Rumors about Kathleen Kennedy’s departure from Lucasfilm have been swirling for years, but recent reports suggest that her tenure as president may finally be coming to an end. According to Puck, Kennedy is expected to step down before the end of 2025, though sources claim no official decision has been made. As one of the most influential figures in modern Hollywood, Kennedy’s potential exit raises questions about the future of Lucasfilm and the Star Wars franchise, as well as the complex legacy she leaves behind.
Kennedy’s tenure at Lucasfilm: A mixed legacy
Kathleen Kennedy took the helm at Lucasfilm in 2012, following Disney’s $4 billion acquisition of the company. Her appointment was initially met with optimism, given her storied career as a producer on iconic films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, and Schindler’s List. However, her leadership of Lucasfilm has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows.
Under Kennedy, the Star Wars sequel trilogy—The Force Awakens (2015), The Last Jedi (2018), and The Rise of Skywalker (2019)—revived the franchise after a decade-long hiatus. However, while The Force Awakens was a box office juggernaut, earning $936 million domestically, the subsequent films saw diminishing returns and growing fan division. The Last Jedi polarized audiences with its bold narrative choices, and The Rise of Skywalker was criticized for its rushed storytelling and fan-service approach that many thought made little sense to the continuity of the series.
Kennedy’s stewardship also saw the release of standalone films like Rogue One (2016), which was a critical and commercial success, and Solo (2018), which became the first Star Wars film to lose money. The underperformance of Solo led Lucasfilm to pivot toward streaming content on Disney+, resulting in hits like The Mandalorian and Andor, as well as mixed receptions for Obi-Wan Kenobi and The Book of Boba Fett.
Fan sentiment: Love, hate, and everything in between
Kathleen Kennedy has become a lightning rod for fan criticism, with many blaming her for the perceived missteps of the Star Wars franchise. Detractors point to the lack of a cohesive vision for the sequel trilogy, frequent director changes (e.g., Colin Trevorrow’s departure from Episode IX), and the cancellation of high-profile projects like Rogue Squadron. Some fans argue that Kennedy’s leadership has been marked by indecision and a reliance on nostalgia rather than innovation.
However, others defend Kennedy, noting that she has overseen some of the franchise’s most beloved projects, including The Mandalorian and Rogue One. They argue that much of the criticism directed at her is rooted in sexism, as she is often scapegoated for decisions that likely involved broader input from Disney and Lucasfilm executives. As one Reddit user put it, “She’s a woman in charge of Lucasfilm, and that makes her an easy target for fanboy ire.”
The debate over Kennedy’s leadership often reflects broader tensions within the Star Wars fanbase. Some fans long for the days of George Lucas’s singular vision, while others appreciate the diversity of storytelling that Kennedy has championed. The success of shows like Andor, which explores complex themes of rebellion and oppression, suggests that there is still a hunger for bold, original Star Wars content.
What’s next for Kennedy and Lucasfilm?
If Kennedy does step down, her successor will face the daunting task of steering Star Wars into a new era. Names like Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, and Kevin Feige have been floated as potential replacements, though no official announcements have been made.
Kennedy’s departure would mark the end of an era, but her influence on the franchise will endure. She has produced films that have collectively earned over $11 billion worldwide and has been instrumental in expanding Star Wars into television and streaming. While her tenure has been divisive, it has also been transformative, ensuring that Star Wars remains a cultural force nearly 50 years after its inception.
Final thoughts: A balanced perspective
Kathleen Kennedy’s legacy at Lucasfilm is a testament to the challenges of managing a beloved franchise in the modern era. While her leadership has been marked by both triumphs and missteps, the vitriol directed at her often overshadows her contributions to the industry. As the rumors of her departure continue to swirl, one thing is clear: Kathleen Kennedy’s impact on Star Wars—and Hollywood—will be felt for years to come. Whether fans love her or loathe her, her role in shaping the galaxy far, far away is undeniable.