What’s Next for ‘Star Wars’? The Search for Kathleen Kennedy’s Successor in Hollywood’s Most Coveted Role

So, who exactly wants to steer the “Star Wars” universe? It’s an interesting question. Taking on this role isn’t always rewarding, despite its prestige. The president of Lucasfilm holds a significant position in Hollywood, especially with the weight of iconic franchises like “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones” on their shoulders.

However, stepping into this job means facing harsh criticism. Fans may take to social media to express their discontent, and pokes from shows like “South Park” are inevitable. Some view the franchise as too progressive, while others think it strays too far from the legacy George Lucas built. The new president will also start at a challenging time; it’s been six years since a “Star Wars” film was released, which feels like ages in today’s fast-paced media landscape.

Since Disney bought Lucasfilm for $4 billion, the movies released haven’t quite hit the mark. They often struggled at the box office and received mixed reviews. The recent focus on streaming services has led to the cancellation of shows like “The Acolyte” after just one season, showing that not all projects have succeeded.

With Kathleen Kennedy set to leave her position in 2025, many industry leaders are eager to get noticed by Disney CEO Bob Iger. There are only a few roles like this, and the right person could have a major influence akin to what Kevin Feige has built with the Marvel franchise.

The next president must connect well with filmmakers. Under Kennedy’s leadership, many top-tier directors came and went. There are notable cases like Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, who were let go from “Solo” mid-production. Issues also arose with other prominent names such as Patty Jenkins and David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, whose projects were announced but later dropped. Even well-regarded films like “Rogue One” experienced significant reshoots. Future directors will want reassurance that they won’t end up part of this pattern.

The new leader should also have a clear vision for the future of “Star Wars.” After the long gap since “The Rise of Skywalker” in 2019, fans are eager for more, especially as a new film based on “The Mandalorian” is set for release in 2026.

Even the Marvel Cinematic Universe is facing tough times; it’s hard for any franchise to keep up quality as they expand into different formats. The excitement can fizzle out if there’s too much content too quickly.

According to David A. Gross, who runs a movie consulting firm, “Star Wars” is still bursting with potential. However, it seems to be losing direction after years of exploring various storylines. The upcoming theatrical release of “Mandalorian and Grogu” will be a major test for the franchise.

The ideal candidate will need to understand the rich history that began with the original “Star Wars” in 1977. They will not only need storytelling skills but also some business acumen, particularly since producing “Star Wars” content comes with a hefty price tag.

It’s rare to find someone who loves “Star Wars” and also has the skills to run a vast company. Stephen Galloway from Chapman University points out how crucial it is for this individual to know the ins and outs of the franchise, like the specifics about lightsabers.

As people speculate on who might take the helm, contenders include Jon Favreau, known for his work on “The Mandalorian,” and Dave Filoni, the creative mind behind several “Star Wars” projects. Other names floated are David Heyman from “Harry Potter” and Mary Parent, who oversees the “Dune” series.

Some believe Peter Rice could be a fit for the role. He was let go from Disney in a move that many disagreed with, but his background in developing major franchises could bring a fresh energy to “Star Wars.”

However, not everyone in the creative space wants the pressures of an executive role. Favreau has found more financial success as a filmmaker than he would as an executive, raising the question of whether Lucasfilm might pair a creative genius with a savvy producer—like the James Gunn and Peter Safran duo in the DC universe.

Although Kathleen Kennedy faced criticism during her tenure, she helped maintain the franchise’s momentum over a challenging period. Her background with top producers and her success in reviving “Star Wars” with “The Force Awakens” proved that the series could thrive, even after George Lucas stepped back.

With the recent shifts in the industry, “Star Wars” may indeed need a fresh perspective to rejuvenate its narrative. This is not just isolated to “Star Wars” but is a trend across major franchises today. Other series like “Mission: Impossible” and Marvel are also navigating similar waters, trying to find their footing in a changing entertainment landscape.

Taking bold creative risks might be essential to reenergize the franchise. It’s worth recalling that when George Lucas first pitched “Star Wars,” many believed it wouldn’t succeed. After persuading 20th Century Fox to support him, he was even met with skepticism at an initial screening until Steven Spielberg encouraged him. The final outcome? A billion-dollar hit that changed cinema forever.

It’s clear that whoever steps into this role will have the chance to shape the future of one of the most beloved franchises in history.

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Kathleen Kennedy,Lucasfilm,Star Wars