Disneys Star Wars takeover

Disney to Buy Lucasfilm

With a new series of Star Wars films to come the creators of the iconic global franchise, George Lucas‘ company Lucasfilm Ltd is to be acquired by The Walt Disney Company in a $4.05bn (£2.52bn) deal, announced October 30.

“For the past 35 years, one of my greatest pleasures has been to see Star Wars passed from one generation to the next,” George Lucas says of the deal. “It’s now time for me to pass Star Wars on to a new generation of filmmakers. I’ve always believed that Star Wars could live beyond me, and I thought it was important to set up the transition during my lifetime.”  The newest feature film to come in the ongoing cult saga, Star Wars Episode 7 is anticipated for worldwide release in 2015 – with Lucas serving as creative consultant joined by Kathleen Kennedy, Lucasfilm co-chairman and new president of Lucasfilm at Disney, as executive producer, also serving as the Star Wars brand manager.

 Combined with the purchase of Marvel Entertainment for $4 billion in 2009 and of Pixar Animation Studios for $7.4 billion in 2006, the acquisition solidifies Disney’s status as a leader in animation and superhero films. And it strengthens the legacy of Robert A. Iger, Disney’s chief executive, who has become known for his aggressive expansion of the company since taking charge in 2005.Mr. Iger said Disney acquired a detailed treatment for the next three “Star Wars” films as part of the acquisition.