Kathleen Kennedy, Producer of ‘Star Wars’ and ‘E.T.’, to Lead 2028 LA Olympics Ceremonies

Veteran Hollywood producer Kathleen Kennedy, known for blockbusters like ‘Star Wars’ and ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,’ will oversee the ceremonies for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The announcement positions Kennedy, a co-founder of Amblin Entertainment and current president of Lucasfilm, at the helm of one of the world’s most-watched cultural events. In a statement, Kennedy said, “Sport remains one of the great unifying experiences we share,” signaling her intent to blend athletic spectacle with storytelling. The 2028 Games are expected to draw global audiences in the billions, and organizers are betting on Kennedy’s narrative instincts to craft opening and closing shows that resonate beyond sport. Her appointment continues a trend of Olympic committees tapping entertainment icons to elevate ceremonies, following names like Danny Boyle and Zhang Yimou. With Los Angeles hosting for the third time, Kennedy’s role could define how the city’s creative legacy is showcased to the world. The move also underscores the growing convergence of sports and entertainment, as the Olympics seek to capture younger viewers and digital audiences. For Kennedy, the role is a new frontier after decades shaping cinema’s biggest franchises, and it may set a template for future Games. The 2028 ceremonies are still years away, but expect them to carry a distinctly Hollywood signature.