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In this new Star Wars era, the franchise needs “fresh voices [and] new stories” says Last Jedi writer/director Rian Johnson
Rian Johnson says Kathleen Kennedy's departure from Lucasfilm was a chance for fresh filmmakers to find a place in the Star Wars universe.
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The news that Kathleen Kennedy was departing as the head of Lucasfilm wasn’t exactly unexpected – there had been reports and rumors about it long before the announcement became official in January 2026. It marks a big change for the studio, which Star Wars: The Last Jedi director Rian Johnson hopes will lead to some fresh takes on the Star Wars universe.
During an interview with Variety following confirmation that Kathleen Kennedy would be departing Lucasfilm after 14 years at the studio, Rian Johnson expressed hope that the change would mark a new era for the history film franchise. “I love Kathy. I’m excited now to see what she does next,” Rian Johnson said. “As a Star Wars fan, the most exciting thing for me is always seeing when they bring in fresh voices and fresh filmmakers to come in and tell new stories in that world. That’s what I am looking forward to seeing more happen.”
Johnson directed Star Wars: The Last Jedi back in 2017, which was the second film in the sequel trilogy. His efforts were sandwiched between two J.J. Abrams films, The Force Awakens and The Rise of Skywalker. The departure of Kathleen Kennedy is certainly an opportunity to reshape the future of the Star Wars franchise. Dave Filoni, who has a background in animation in the Star Wars universe, and Lynwen Brennan, who has been brought in to oversee the business side of the studio, are the new Lucasfilm co-presidents and will have a huge influence on what comes next for the galaxy far, far away.
Get to know, understand, and love the Star Wars franchise more with our Star Wars watch order, guide to all the upcoming Star Wars movies & TV shows, and all the Star Wars movies and Star Wars TV shows ranked.
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