Report: Kathleen Kennedy Announces She Will Be Stepping Down at Lucasfilm by Year’s End
In 2012, Kennedy took on the position of co-chair at Lucasfilm.
After 13 years, the renowned film producer Kathleen Kennedy has reportedly informed Disney and colleagues of her decision to step down as President of Lucasfilm by the end of the year.
What’s Happening:
- Kathleen Kennedy, President of Lucasfilm, is anticipated to step down this year.
- A report from Puck indicates that Kennedy, 71, has notified her colleagues of her plans to retire.
- According to Puck, the experienced film producer had considered leaving the previous year but ultimately decided to remain.
- In 2012, Kennedy became co-chair of Lucasfilm with George Lucas, taking on the role following Disney's acquisition and Lucas's departure.
- Kennedy’s announcement has been long rumored — mostly by those who have expressed displeasure with the recent Star Wars slate and the perceived politics behind certain elements.
- This sentiment was on full display last year, when The Acolyte debuted. While some praised the spinoff for its diverse cast, it encountered considerable criticism from reviewers.
- Nevertheless, an aggregate of top film critic evaluations on Rotten Tomatoes indicated that the series garnered a 72% positive rating. In stark contrast, audience reactions were significantly less favorable, with just 19% showing support for The Acolyte.
- In light of the criticism surrounding the direction of Star Wars, Kennedy acknowledged in a November interview with the New York Times that women joining the Star Wars franchise encounter considerable obstacles due to existing expectations.
- Kennedy stated, “Because of the fan base being so male-dominated, they sometimes get attacked in ways that can be quite personal. My belief is that storytelling does need to be representative of all people. That's an easy decision for me."
- The Acolyte was canceled after its first season.
More Star Wars News:
Laughing Place recommends MouseFanTravel.com for all your Disney travel planning
Fill out the form below for a free, no obligation quote from MouseFanTravel.com