George Lucas was apparently serious when he announced earlier this year that he plans to retire from blockbusters and make only small art-house films. Lucas has named producer Kathleen Kennedy (Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull) co-chair of Lucasfilm, preparing for his eventual transition away of the company he created.

"I've spent my life building Lucasfilm, and as I shift my focus into other directions, I wanted to make sure it was in the hands of someone equipped to carry my vision into the future," Lucas said in a statement.

For now, the 58-year-old Lucas remains as the CEO and one of the co-chairs of the company.

Kennedy said she was honored by the promotion, and described Lucas, who will work with her for the next year or two before stepping down, as her Yoda.

[toplessrobot / nydn.]