Kathleen Kennedy Reveals Rian Johnson's Exit from 'Star Wars' Return Was Caused by Online Backlash
In a candid exit interview with Deadline, Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy shed light on the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding the potential return of director Rian Johnson to the Star Wars franchise. The plans for Johnson to helm a new trilogy, which had been in development since 2017, have faced years of uncertainty due to the backlash against his 2017 film 'The Last Jedi'.
Kennedy admitted that Johnson's return was put on hold after he began working on Netflix films, including the 'Knives Out' series. However, she hinted that another factor contributed to the delay: Johnson's alleged nervousness about facing online negativity. "I do believe he got spooked by the online negativity," Kennedy acknowledged.
The perceived toxicity surrounding 'Star Wars' has been a persistent issue since 'The Last Jedi'. The film sparked controversy among fans, with many expressing their dislike for certain characters and plot decisions. Since then, numerous cast members have spoken out about the harassment they've faced due to their involvement in the franchise. Kennedy expressed her support for these women, stating that she believes a small but vocal group of trolls makes up the majority of the negative online discourse.
While Kennedy's comments may be seen as a nail in the coffin for Johnson's 'Star Wars' trilogy, they also highlight the challenges faced by creators when it comes to navigating fan expectations and online backlash. As Kennedy noted, courage is required to overcome fear, suggesting that there remains hope for future projects to persevere despite these obstacles.
The fate of Johnson's return to Star Wars remains uncertain, leaving fans to wonder if his ambitious trilogy will ever come to fruition. Despite the uncertainty, Kennedy's comments underscore the complexities and nuances involved in navigating a franchise with such a dedicated and passionate fan base.
In a candid exit interview with Deadline, Lucasfilm chief Kathleen Kennedy shed light on the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding the potential return of director Rian Johnson to the Star Wars franchise. The plans for Johnson to helm a new trilogy, which had been in development since 2017, have faced years of uncertainty due to the backlash against his 2017 film 'The Last Jedi'.
Kennedy admitted that Johnson's return was put on hold after he began working on Netflix films, including the 'Knives Out' series. However, she hinted that another factor contributed to the delay: Johnson's alleged nervousness about facing online negativity. "I do believe he got spooked by the online negativity," Kennedy acknowledged.
The perceived toxicity surrounding 'Star Wars' has been a persistent issue since 'The Last Jedi'. The film sparked controversy among fans, with many expressing their dislike for certain characters and plot decisions. Since then, numerous cast members have spoken out about the harassment they've faced due to their involvement in the franchise. Kennedy expressed her support for these women, stating that she believes a small but vocal group of trolls makes up the majority of the negative online discourse.
While Kennedy's comments may be seen as a nail in the coffin for Johnson's 'Star Wars' trilogy, they also highlight the challenges faced by creators when it comes to navigating fan expectations and online backlash. As Kennedy noted, courage is required to overcome fear, suggesting that there remains hope for future projects to persevere despite these obstacles.
The fate of Johnson's return to Star Wars remains uncertain, leaving fans to wonder if his ambitious trilogy will ever come to fruition. Despite the uncertainty, Kennedy's comments underscore the complexities and nuances involved in navigating a franchise with such a dedicated and passionate fan base.
i mean we think its easy just to hit a like or comment, but to have people literally harass you over your work? no thanks 
anyway, im so proud of kathleen kennedy for speaking out about this issue, it takes courage to acknowledge the toxicity and try to do something about it 
hopefully her comments will help bring some positive change to the star wars fandom 
I mean, can u blame Rian for gettin nervous about online trolls? 
'The Last Jedi' was already a divisive film, but to see all that extra hate pourin outta the internet... it's just too much! 
As Kathleen Kennedy said, it's not like those 10-15% of haters are representin the whole fanbase. It's just some weirdos online tryin to ruin things for everyone else 
. That takes courage and class. Maybe we should just focus on appreciatin the movies themselves instead of gettin all worked up over minor plot points or character decisions 
. I mean, his last movie got so much backlash from fans and it's just crazy how some people can't even have an opinion without being abusive online 
. Maybe one day we'll get a new trilogy that's actually worth making, but until then, I'm gonna be over here with my skepticism 
he must have been under so much pressure after the backlash of 'The Last Jedi'... I mean, I get it, not everyone will like the changes they make to a beloved franchise, but online negativity can be really hurtful 
. As a parent, I know how scary it can be to share your work with the world and deal with criticism 
. Can't we all just have a respectful discussion about our differing opinions? 
. Can't even trust fans to be civil anymore 
. I mean, come on, if you can't handle some hate, then maybe don't take it personally? 
Kathleen Kennedy's right though - there are just too many keyboard warriors out there who think they're entitled to trash someone's work 
. What a waste, man 
anyway back to star wars has anyone tried that new virtual reality experience with the star wars theme? i heard its lit