According to a report by Puck News, Kathleen Kennedy, the president of Lucasfilm, is contemplating stepping down at the end of her contract in 2025. The veteran film producer reportedly considered retiring as early as 2024 but chose to delay her decision. However, Variety has cited a source close to Kennedy labeling Puck's report as "pure speculation." On the other hand, The Hollywood Reporter has corroborated Puck's story, adding credence to the news of her potential departure.

Kennedy joined Lucasfilm in 2012 as a co-chair handpicked by George Lucas to lead the studio. Following Lucas's exit, she was promoted to president and has been steering the Star Wars franchise ever since. Under her leadership, Lucasfilm has released the sequel trilogy, including Star Wars Episodes 7-9, and spearheaded the franchise's expansion into streaming with successful series such as The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Andor, Ahsoka, Skeleton Key, and others. While some films like "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" have been massive box office successes, others, such as "Solo: A Star Wars Story," have faced financial challenges and divided fans.

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Although not officially confirmed, Kennedy's potential exit could impact several announced and speculated projects, including new films directed by James Mangold, Taika Waititi, and Donald Glover, as well as an untitled Rey movie that has yet to fully take shape. The upcoming lineup of Star Wars projects includes "The Mandalorian & Grogu" and a new trilogy helmed by Simon Kinberg.

Before her tenure at Lucasfilm, Kennedy co-founded Amblin Entertainment alongside Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall. She has produced iconic films such as E.T., Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, and other 90s classics, earning her eight Academy Award nominations for Best Picture. Her illustrious career in film production has significantly influenced the industry, and her potential departure from Lucasfilm marks the end of an era.