Kathleen Kennedy is stepping down as the head of Lucasfilm after more than 13 years, with Dave Filoni set to take over as president and chief creative officer, according to an announcement Thursday by The Walt Disney Co. Filoni, previously chief commercial officer of Lucasfilm, will now lead the Star Wars franchise into its sixth decade, sharing leadership responsibilities with Lynwen Brennan, president and general manager of Lucasfilm's businesses, who will serve as co-president.

Kennedy's departure marks the end of a significant era for the Star Wars universe, which has seen both immense commercial success and considerable creative debate under her leadership since Disney's acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012. The transition comes as Disney seeks to revitalize the franchise and chart a course for its future in a rapidly evolving global entertainment landscape.

"When George Lucas asked me to take over Lucasfilm upon his retirement, I couldn’t have imagined what lay ahead," Kennedy stated. "It has been a true privilege to spend more than a decade working alongside the extraordinary talent at Lucasfilm."

Kennedy, handpicked by Lucas as his successor, oversaw the production of a new Star Wars trilogy, standalone films, and television series, expanding the franchise's reach to a global audience. While the sequel trilogy generated billions of dollars in revenue, it also faced criticism from some fans regarding its creative direction, highlighting the challenges of managing a beloved cultural phenomenon with a diverse international fanbase.

Bob Iger, chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Co., recognized Kennedy as a "visionary filmmaker" in the announcement.

Filoni's appointment signals a potential shift in creative strategy. He is well-known for his extensive work on animated Star Wars series such as "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" and "Star Wars Rebels," which have garnered a dedicated following and are praised for their storytelling and character development. His deep understanding of the Star Wars lore and his ability to connect with fans could be crucial in shaping the franchise's future.

The Star Wars franchise holds a unique position in global popular culture, transcending national boundaries and appealing to diverse audiences worldwide. Its themes of good versus evil, hope, and redemption resonate across cultures, making it a significant cultural export for the United States. The success of the franchise is vital to Disney's overall financial performance, particularly as the company navigates the competitive streaming market and seeks to expand its international presence.

The change in leadership at Lucasfilm raises questions about the future direction of Star Wars and its ability to maintain its relevance in a rapidly changing media environment. Filoni's vision for the franchise and his ability to balance creative innovation with the expectations of a global fanbase will be closely watched by industry observers and Star Wars enthusiasts alike. The coming years will reveal how this transition impacts the Star Wars universe and its continued influence on global entertainment.