Kathleen Kennedy Addresses Retirement Rumors, Reveals Star Wars Succession Strategy

Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy has firmly addressed swirling rumors about her retirement, dispelling any notions that she plans to step away from the film industry anytime soon. In response to a report from Puck News suggesting that she might retire at the end of her contract in 2025, Kennedy made it clear that she is not retiring. While Variety labeled the report as "pure speculation," The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the news, adding to the confusion. Kennedy's response, as reported by Deadline, was unequivocal: "The truth is, and I want to just say loud and clear, I am not retiring."

Kennedy emphasized her passion for filmmaking, stating, "I will never retire from movies. I will die making movies." This statement underscores her dedication to the industry and her role at Lucasfilm. Although she is working on a succession plan with Disney boss Bob Iger, and Star Wars Rebels creator Dave Filoni is considered a strong candidate to take over, Kennedy is committed to staying at Lucasfilm and continuing to produce upcoming projects, including a Mandalorian movie and a Star Wars film directed by Shawn Levy.

Kennedy acknowledged that plans for her eventual departure are in motion, but she stressed that she is not leaving the company or retiring from the movie business. "I’m not going to be here forever," she admitted, reflecting on her 13-year tenure at Lucasfilm. She highlighted the growth of the company during her time, noting the expansion into streaming and other new ventures. Kennedy also denied any suggestions that she is being "pushed aside" or "in need of being replaced," asserting that such claims are "absolutely not the case" and "could not be further from the truth."

Under Kennedy's leadership, Lucasfilm has navigated through a new sequel trilogy (Star Wars Episodes 7-9), and the launch of the Star Wars streaming era, which includes successful series like The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Andor, Ahsoka, Skeleton Crew, and The Acolyte. While some projects, such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens, have been major successes, others like Solo: A Star Wars Story have faced challenges. When asked directly by Deadline if she would step down as Lucasfilm boss this year, Kennedy responded that she didn't know "at this stage," but affirmed that any decision would be "100% my decision." She remained non-committal about whether Filoni would succeed her in the top job.

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Kathleen Kennedy at the launch of Disney+ Star Wars show the Acolyte. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney.