Kathleen Kennedy Steps Down: Dave Filoni Takes Over Lucasfilm
After 14 years leading Lucasfilm, Kathleen Kennedy hands the reins to George Lucas protégé Dave Filoni, marking a new era for Star Wars.
Kathleen Kennedy OFFICIALLY OUT at Lucasfilm! Filoni & Brennan Lead Star Wars Into a New Era!
In a seismic shift for the Star Wars franchise, Kathleen Kennedy has officially stepped down as President of Lucasfilm after 14 years at the helm. Dave Filoni, the acclaimed creator of The Clone Wars and showrunner of Ahsoka, will take over as President and Chief Creative Officer.
A New Creative Direction
Filoni, who worked directly with George Lucas to build Lucasfilm's animation department, will lead the creative vision for all Star Wars content. Lynwen Brennan, a Lucasfilm veteran since 1999, joins him as Co-President.
"My love of storytelling was shaped by the films of Kathleen Kennedy and George Lucas," Filoni said in a statement. "I never dreamed I would be privileged to learn the craft of filmmaking from both of them."
Kennedy's Legacy and Future
Kennedy will return to full-time producing, working on upcoming features including The Mandalorian and Grogu (May 2026) and Star Wars: Starfighter. Her tenure saw the sequel trilogy, Rogue One, and the launch of Disney+ Star Wars series.
Fan Reaction
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from fans who have long championed Filoni's understanding of Star Wars lore and his ability to create beloved characters like Ahsoka Tano.