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Kathleen Kennedy Takes Helm of LA28 Olympic Ceremonies
Confirmed
In Short: Oscar-nominated producer Kathleen Kennedy has been appointed to oversee the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and Paralympics, succeeding Peter Rice, who recently joined Netflix as chief content officer.
Kennedy, known for her work on films like 'E.T.' and 'Jurassic Park,' will lead the ceremonies team for the LA28 Games, which are scheduled to begin on July 14, 2028, at SoFi Stadium and other venues across Los Angeles.
In a statement, Kennedy expressed her enthusiasm for the role, saying, 'My husband, Frank Marshall, and I have attended virtually every Games since Los Angeles in 1984, and sport remains one of the great unifying experiences we share.'
LA28 chairperson and president Casey Wasserman praised Kennedy's appointment, calling her 'a legend' and 'one of Hollywood’s all-time greats.' Wasserman added, 'When the stars align to focus the world’s attention on Los Angeles for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, I can’t think of anyone better to conjure the magic of Hollywood than Kathleen.'
Kennedy's tenure at Lucasfilm, where she served as president from 2012 to 2026, saw both successes and challenges. She oversaw the expansion of the Star Wars franchise but also faced criticism for films like 'Solo: A Star Wars Story' and 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.'
The actual production of the Olympic and Paralympic Ceremonies will be supported by FulFive, a newly created entity formed by the merger of Fulwell Entertainment and FiveCurrents.
The LA28 Games are set to feature events in multiple cities, including Oklahoma City and six Soccer/Football cities, making it a nationwide celebration.
In addition to Kennedy, the LA28 ceremonies team includes Creative Director Ben Winston and Executive Producer of Production Scott Givens.
What this adds
Kennedy's appointment comes as the LA28 Games face increasing scrutiny over costs and other issues.
Background
Star Wars is an American media franchise created by George Lucas. The space opera saga began with the original Star Wars film (1977) and quickly became a worldwide pop culture phenomenon.
What's confirmed
- As of today, multiple Oscar nominee Kennedy will take over Peter Rice ‘s old job as Head of Ceremonies and Content for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
- “The Olympics have been a touchstone in my life,” Kennedy said.
What's still developing
- After running Star Wars for years, Kathleen Kennedy is now taking on the Olympics’ opening and closing ceremonies that aren’t anywhere near a galaxy far far away.
- Clearly all concerned anticipated the Olympic force being strong with Kennedy, even as the Games themselves and Wasserman have come under increasing scrutiny for costs and more.
- Disney executive Ken Potrock, who had been tasked with planning Disney events during the Olympics, has announced his retirement for early next year.
- 39 LP On Location - Disneyland Construction × Fun & Games Disney Quizzes Sorcerer's Streak Villain's Challenge Disney Hangman Disney Park Maps Through the Years Former Lucasfilm Chief Kathleen Kennedy Has Found Her Next Gig The former Disney exec is taking over for another former Disney exec.
- Kennedy follows in the footsteps of many entertainment greats, including Walt Disney himself, who headed the Pageantry Committee for the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley, making him the producer of the opening and closing ceremonies, just as Kennedy is now.
- Rice was just hired as the new chief content officer at Netflix, leading many to wonder if he would have the time to do both jobs.
- Rice isn't leaving LA28 entirely, as he will remain an executive producer.
- Previously, the job had been held by another former Disney executive, Peter Rice.
- Abrams to helm 2015’s “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” which successfully revived the franchise with more than $2 billion globally.
- She maintains a relationship with the company behind “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones,” with recent credits including last summer’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” and the upcoming “Star Wars: Starfighter,” led by Ryan Gosling.
- “Casey Wasserman has a bold vision for what these Games can mean for Los Angeles and the world, and I’m thrilled he’s asked me to help bring it to life,” Kennedy said.
- She’s replacing Peter Rice, who was hired as Netflix’s chief content officer earlier this week and took over for Bela Bajaria.