Is Kathleen Kennedy About to Be Replaced by Filoni and Beck as Star Wars Leaders?

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It seems that change might be on the horizon for Lucasfilm. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Dave Filoni and Carrie Beck – both longtime Star Wars veterans – are being considered as potential replacements for Kathleen Kennedy in leading roles at the studio. Although other names have been speculated, sources close to the site suggest that Disney might opt for internal promotion, with Filoni and Beck potentially taking on co-leadership positions.

Filoni and Beck Eyed as Lucasfilm’s New Co-Leads

In their article about the Hollywood succession roles, THR offers up:

At present, it’s anticipated that Dave Filoni, a longtime Lucasfilm employee, and Carrie Beck, who currently holds the position of production head at Lucasfilm, will share the role of heads.

Kathleen Kennedy sticking around as producer?

Filoni, an apprentice of George Lucas and beloved by dedicated Star Wars followers, is often viewed as the creative successor to the franchise. On the other hand, Beck, who joined Lucasfilm in 2012, has been working diligently behind the scenes on various animated and live-action projects. The Hollywood Reporter points out that although both Filoni and Beck are deeply knowledgeable about Star Wars history, they have limited experience with filmmaking. This lack of experience might be counteracted by keeping Kennedy as a producer to ensure quality during the transition, according to Disney.

…although both she and Filoni may not have extensive backgrounds in filmmaking, Kennedy’s ongoing role as a producer in various Star Wars productions could help offset this lack of experience, maintaining high standards for the immediate future.

It’s been speculated for some time now that Kathleen Kennedy might be stepping down. However, she dismissed these rumors at Star Wars Celebration Japan, stating she’s not going anywhere. But a recent report by The Hollywood Reporter indicates otherwise. Their sources suggest that the foundation for a leadership change is already set, with Filoni and Beck apparently ready to take charge. As of now, there’s no official confirmation from Disney or Lucasfilm, but it seems like the Kennedy era might be nearing its end behind the scenes.

What’s next for Disney Star Wars?

After the final season of Andor, production is underway on Ahsoka‘s second season, a collaboration between Lucasfilm and Filoni for Disney+. Notable details include Hayden Christen reprising his role as Anakin, the return of Admiral Ackbar, and Rory McCann joining the cast as Baylan Skol.

On May 22, 2026, we can look forward to the release of Jon Favreau’s film, “The Mandalorian & Grogu,” while Shawn Levy is working on the production of “Star Wars: Starfighter” featuring Ryan Gosling, set to hit theaters on May 28, 2027.

It’s known that Dave Filoni is working on a Star Wars movie, rumored to bridge the gaps between television and cinema, however, neither its production start nor release date have been publicly confirmed yet.

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2025-06-05 00:01