Heirs to the Empire: can Star Wars' new leadership team save the spluttering sci-fi franchise?

It's official: Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy is stepping down as overseer of the Star Wars franchise.

After months of speculation, Kennedy's 14-year spell in charge of the Disney subsidiary – and, by proxy, her time managing its flagship sci-fi property – will soon come to an end. Kennedy's impending departure was first announced on the official Star Wars website last night (January 15).

As well as announcing Kennedy's exit, Lucasfilm and parent company Disney revealed who will succeed her. Dave Filoni, who's been viewed as Kennedy's natural heir for some time, will become Lucasfilm President and Chief Creative Officer for the Star Wars franchise, with Lynwen Brennan also serving as Co-President.