'Replacing Han Solo? Not a Chance, at Least Not Right Now' — Lucasfilm's Kathleen Kennedy Reflects on the Timing of Solo: A Star Wars Story
When it comes to the iconic character of Han Solo, it seems that some things are simply irreplaceable. Outgoing president of Lucasfilm, Kathleen Kennedy, recently expressed her thoughts on the timing of Solo: A Star Wars Story, suggesting that perhaps the film came out "too soon" after audiences last encountered the beloved smuggler, portrayed by Harrison Ford.
In an interview with Deadline, when asked if she had any regrets during her time leading Disney's production powerhouse behind the Star Wars franchise, Kennedy admitted that she has come to realize that "you cannot replace Han Solo, at least not at this moment in time."
Solo: A Star Wars Story hit theaters in 2018, just three years following Ford's return to the role in Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens. Ford would also make a brief appearance once more in 2019's Episode 9: The Rise of Skywalker, capping off his legendary portrayal of the character.
Despite receiving favorable reviews from critics, Solo struggled at the box office, grossing a mere $393 million against a production cost estimated between $275 million and $300 million. In contrast, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story achieved remarkable success, raking in over $1.05 billion worldwide with a budget ranging from $200 million to $280 million.
The lackluster performance of Solo had immediate repercussions, effectively halting Lucasfilm's plans for further standalone Star Wars films and other new projects. As it stands, the upcoming feature film based on The Mandalorian and Grogu will be the first Star Wars movie to premiere since the contentious release of The Rise of Skywalker, marking a seven-year gap in theatrical releases.
Reflecting on her leadership role, Kennedy stated, "I don’t really have regrets," but then added, "Well, maybe I do regret a little about Solo: A Star Wars Story. I brought [screenwriter] Larry Kasdan on board, and we were genuinely excited about that concept. But as we delved deeper, it became clear that, fundamentally and conceptually, you cannot replace Han Solo, at least not right now.
"Alden Ehrenreich did a wonderful job," Kennedy acknowledged, praising the actor's performance. "He truly is a talented performer, but we placed him in an impossible position. Once you commit to a project like that, you have to see it through. I feel a bit of regret about that decision, but not regarding the process of making the film itself. I think we just moved too quickly with the concept."
In the same interview, Kennedy shared insights into several upcoming Star Wars projects she has overseen throughout her tenure, although many of these have since been shelved or postponed. Among them was a long-anticipated spin-off focusing on Donald Glover's portrayal of Lando, which many believe may have fared better than Ehrenreich's attempt to embody Han Solo.
Kennedy noted, "Projects from Taika Waititi and Donald Glover still seem to be alive to some extent. Ultimately, it will be up to the new team to determine their fate." Discussions around Glover's Lando project began as far back as 2018, but updates have been scarce since then. As Kennedy transitions out of her role, she will be succeeded by veteran Star Wars writer and director Dave Filoni, alongside Lucasfilm executive Lynwen Brennan, who will manage the company's creative and financial aspects separately.
As the Star Wars saga continues to evolve, one can't help but wonder: Is it indeed possible for any actor to take on the mantle of such an iconic character without facing the inevitable comparisons? What do you think? Share your views below!
