Star Wars Episode 7 to be released in 2015 as Disney acquires Lucasfilm

Get ready for more Star Wars movies. The Walt Disney Company, having just acquired Lucasfilm Ltd. in a stock and cash transaction, has announced plans to release Star Wars Episode 7 sometime in 2015. In attempt to stay neutral in this announcement, I will not voice my opinion of this.

But I will inform you that Kathleen Kennedy, current Co-Chairman of Lucasfilm, will become President of Lucasfilm and serve as brand manager for Star Wars. She will also serve as executive producer on the new Star Wars feature films, of which there are plans to continue the saga and "grow the franchise well into the future."

George Lucas will serve as creative consultant on the new films.

"Lucasfilm reflects the extraordinary passion, vision, and storytelling of its founder, George Lucas," said Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. "This transaction combines a world-class portfolio of content including Star Wars, one of the greatest family entertainment franchises of all time, with Disney's unique and unparalleled creativity across multiple platforms, businesses, and markets to generate sustained growth and drive significant long-term value."

The transaction is valued at $4.05 billion. Disney will pay approximately half of the consideration in cash and issue approximately 40 million shares at closing.

Are you looking forward to seeing a new Star Wars trilogy?