Rian Johnson expressed enthusiasm about Kathleen Kennedy Lucasfilm exit, which marks a significant change at the helm of the Star Wars franchise. Kennedy, who was appointed by George Lucas to lead Lucasfilm 14 years ago, recently announced her resignation and will be succeeded by Dave Filoni and Lynwen Brennan.
Speaking at the Variety Studio presented by Audible during Sundance, where Johnson served as executive producer on The Only Living Pickpocket in New York, he shared,
“I love Kathy. I am excited now to see what she does next.”
He also highlighted the importance of new creative voices in the Star Wars universe, saying,
“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 Reflects on His Star Wars Journey
Rian Johnson, who directed Star Wars: The Last Jedi, described the experience as one of the best in his career. He stated,
“I had the time of my life doing it. I am now an even bigger ‘Star Wars’ fan than I was when going into it. I would feel blessed if that were to ever happen [again].”
Although Johnson had plans to create a new Star Wars trilogy following The Last Jedi, the series did not progress, as he shifted focus to directing and writing his own successful Knives Out trilogy.
Kelly Marie Tran Expresses Support for Kennedy’s Legacy
At Sundance, Kelly Marie Tran, known for her role as Rose Tico in The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, reflected on Kennedy’s impact during a conversation at the Variety Studio. She called Kennedy’s departure “such a loss” for the Star Wars franchise.
Tran praised Kennedy’s influential role, especially as a woman in leadership, saying,
“She’s had such an incredible career. To have someone who is not just a woman but who is so capable in that role for so long, and it’s historic. I think that it’s such a loss, but I am very happy for all the life changes she is making.”
Behind the Scenes of Johnson’s Star Wars Plans and Fan Reactions
In her exit interview with Deadline, Kathleen Kennedy revealed that Johnson’s new trilogy never advanced because his commitment to the Knives Out series demanded
“a huge amount of his time.”
Kennedy also suggested that Johnson might have been hesitant due to fan backlash following The Last Jedi.
Johnson publicly disputed that claim on X, posting, “Lol zero spooked, sorry,” clarifying that fan response did not deter him from continuing in the Star Wars universe.
Significance of the Leadership Change at Lucasfilm
Kathleen Kennedy’s departure marks a pivotal moment for Lucasfilm as it shifts leadership to Dave Filoni and Lynwen Brennan, signaling potential new directions for Star Wars storytelling. Johnson’s anticipation of fresh creative voices aligns with this transition, offering hope for innovative narratives and the franchise’s growth. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely as Lucasfilm embarks on this new chapter under its new leaders.
