Kathleen Kennedy steps down as Lucasfilm president; Filoni and Brennan succeed her

Disney said on Thursday that Kathleen Kennedy will step down as president of Lucasfilm after nearly 14 years and return to producing. She will be succeeded immediately by Dave Filoni, who will hold the title of president while remaining chief creative officer, and Lynwen Brennan, who will be co‑president.

Ms. Kennedy’s tenure produced hits such as The Mandalorian, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Andor, and some misses including Solo, amid near‑constant culture‑war turbulence. Disney praised her work, with Chief Executive Robert A. Iger calling her "a visionary" in a statement and Alan Bergman also lavishing praise.

The Times noted that Lucasfilm’s projects are expensive and closely scrutinized, and that Ms. Kennedy prioritized diversity in casting and storytelling even as racist and misogynistic voices often overshadowed positive discussion. Mr. Filoni, 51, is a 21‑year Lucasfilm veteran known for his standing among die‑hard fans and his work as a writer and producer on Ahsoka, The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels and The Mandalorian; he was mentored by George Lucas.

Ms. Brennan, 58, is a 27‑year veteran who began at Industrial Light & Magic and recently ran the studio’s games, publishing and consumer products divisions. Ms.

Key Topics

Business, Kathleen Kennedy, Lucasfilm, Dave Filoni, Lynwen Brennan, Disney