Kathleen Kennedy to Retire from Lucasfilm by End of 2025

Recent reports from Puck News suggest that Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy may be considering stepping down from her role by the end of 2025. The veteran film producer, who joined Lucasfilm in 2012, is reportedly looking to retire at the end of her contract this year. Although Puck News mentioned that Kennedy had previously contemplated retiring in 2024 but delayed her decision, a source close to Kennedy dismissed these claims as "pure speculation" according to Variety. However, The Hollywood Reporter has also confirmed Puck's story, adding credibility to the speculation surrounding her potential departure.

Kathleen Kennedy was handpicked by George Lucas to co-chair Lucasfilm and took over as president following Lucas's departure. Under her leadership, she has been instrumental in steering the Star Wars franchise through a new sequel trilogy (Episodes 7-9), and initiating the franchise's expansion into the streaming world with hit series like The Mandalorian, Book of Boba Fett, Andor, Ahsoka, Skeleton Key, and more. While some projects, such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens, have been blockbuster successes, others like Solo: A Star Wars Story have faced financial challenges and mixed audience reactions.

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If Kennedy does decide to step down, it could impact a range of upcoming and rumored Star Wars projects, including new movies from acclaimed directors James Mangold, Taika Waititi, and Donald Glover. Additionally, there's an untitled Rey movie that has been announced but is still in the early stages of development. The upcoming slate of Star Wars projects also includes The Mandalorian & Grogu and a new trilogy from Simon Kinberg.

Before joining Lucasfilm, Kennedy co-founded Amblin Entertainment with Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall. Her prolific career has seen her produce iconic films such as E.T., Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, and many other 90s classics, earning her eight Academy Award nominations for Best Picture. Her legacy at Lucasfilm and in the film industry is undeniable, and her potential retirement marks the end of an era.