A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, George Lucas created Star Wars—

(I know I’m being so dramatic but it’s actually dramatic)

and ever since, running the franchise has been one of the most impossible jobs in Hollywood. Now, with Kathleen Kennedy reportedly preparing to step down, the burning question is: Who will be brave enough to take the baton of the billion-dollar franchise?

Let’s be honest, running Star Wars isn’t just about producing movies—it’s about dealing with an army of fans who will scrutinize your every move. 

(Like how they may scrutinize this posts)

It’s about balancing the demands of nostalgia-loving purists, Disney executives, and an ever-changing industry. So, who has the skills (and the Force) to pull it off? Let’s explore some top contenders.

Tell me who you think in the comment section!!!

Why Is Kathleen Kennedy Stepping Down?

Kathleen Kennedy has been at the head of Star Wars since 2012, overseeing everything from the sequel trilogy (The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, The Rise of Skywalker) to the Disney+ era (The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, Andor). While she’s had major wins (Rogue One was fantastic, The Mandalorian was a game-changer), she’s also had some pretty divisive moments (The Last Jedi discourse will never die, and let’s not even talk about Solo‘s box office performance).

Rumors suggest that Kennedy will step down after 2025, possibly after the release of Daisy Ridley’s New Jedi Ordermovie. While she’s been one of the most powerful producers in Hollywood, her time in the Star Wars galaxy seems to be coming to an end. So, who’s next?

The Top Contenders to Lead the Star Wars Universe

1. Dave Filoni – The Chosen One?

(I’m being dramatic again right😂)

If Star Wars had a true heir to the throne, it would be Dave Filoni. The man is basically George Lucas’ apprentice, having worked on The Clone Wars, Rebels, and The Mandalorian. He’s the reason we have Ahsoka Tano, and he understands the deep lore better than anyone.

✔ Pros: Beloved by fans, understands Star Wars inside out, and already oversees major projects.
❌ Cons: Not much experience leading a major film studio, and some of his projects (Ahsoka) haven’t been as universally loved.

It’s my own idea. Don’t judge for that. Drop your’s. 

2. Jon Favreau – The Billion-Dollar Filmmaker

(I smell money)

Jon Favreau is Hollywood’s golden boy. Swoosh right? He launched the MCU with Iron Man, revived The Jungle Book and The Lion King, and made The Mandalorian a massive success. He has both the creative and business mind to run Star Wars.

✔ Pros: Knows how to handle big franchises, respects Star Wars mythology, and can deliver box office hits.
❌ Cons: Some fans weren’t thrilled with The Book of Boba Fett and parts of The Mandalorian Season 3.

(I know I wasn’t)

3. Kevin Feige – The Marvel Mastermind

✔ Pros: Proven franchise builder, understands fan engagement, and has experience with interconnected storytelling.
❌ Cons: The MCU is currently struggling, and Feige might not want to juggle both universes.

Kevin Feige has built the Marvel Cinematic Universe, turning it into a multi-billion-dollar empire. Could he bring that same magic to Star Wars?

(Not Hannah Montana coming to mind)

4. Rian Johnson – A Bold but Controversial Choice

Rian Johnson directed The Last Jedi, a movie that split the fandom in half. Some fans love his bold storytelling, while others still aren’t over Luke Skywalker’s arc. Would Disney take the risk of handing him the whole franchise?

✔ Pros: A visionary director with fresh ideas.
❌ Cons: The Star Wars fandom can be brutal, and bringing him back could reignite the Last Jedi wars.

5. Bryce Dallas Howard – The Dark Horse Pick

She’s directed some of the best episodes of The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett, proving she understands the Star Wars world. She’s a rising talent in Hollywood—could she surprise everyone and take over?

✔ Pros: Fresh perspective, well-liked by fans, and strong directing skills.
❌ Cons: No experience running a massive franchise.

(Everyone deserves a chance right? Go girl)

What Will the Next Star Wars Boss Need to Do?

Whoever takes over Star Wars will face some major challenges:

• Win back fans – The fandom is divided after the sequel trilogy. The next leader needs to unite the base.
• Plan a clear future – Star Wars movies have been stuck in development limbo. A strong leader needs to lay out a solid roadmap.
• Balance Disney+ and theaters – With streaming reshaping Hollywood, the next boss must decide how to split focus between TV and films.
• Handle the pressure – Leading Star Wars is like being the Emperor—there will always be rebellion.

If you agree with me comment yes!! If not then I won’t be sad and eat popcorn and cry all day😭💔

So, Who Will Take Over?

Right now, Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau seem like the frontrunners, but Star Wars has always been full of surprises. Whether the next leader is a familiar face or a wildcard, one thing is certain: taking over Star Wars is one of the hardest jobs in Hollywood.

(The hardest thing I’ve gotta do is sneeze with my mouth closed)

Who do you think should be the next Star Wars boss? Let’s hear your thoughts!