Kathleen Kennedy Lucasfilm Exit 2026: Dave Filoni to Take the Helm

A 14-year era ends, but the pilot's seat isn't empty. Kathleen Kennedy is stepping down as president of Lucasfilm, marking a massive shift in the galaxy's power structure. Since taking the reins in 2012 following Disney's acquisition, she's steered the Star Wars franchise through a decade of expansion and controversy.

The Successors: Dave Filoni and Lynwen Brennan

Kennedy's former role will be split to ensure both creative and operational excellence. Dave Filoni, the fan-favorite Chief Creative Officer, will now also serve as President. Meanwhile, Lynwen Brennan will step up as Co-President. Filoni, who's been with the company since 2005, is widely seen as the creative heir to George Lucas's legacy.

Returning to Her Roots as a Producer

Kennedy isn't retiring or leaving the Force behind. She's returning to full-time producing, focusing on major upcoming films like The Mandalorian and Grogu and Star Wars: Starfighter. "It's been a true privilege to spend more than a decade working alongside the extraordinary talent at Lucasfilm," Kennedy stated, reflecting on her transformative tenure.