By Islam El-Sakka
Oscar-nominated producer Kathleen Kennedy has been appointed to oversee the opening and closing ceremonies for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, organizers announced Wednesday.
Hollywood veteran takes key role
Kennedy, 73, stepped down as president of Lucasfilm in January after leading the studio since 2012 and guiding the modern Star Wars era. Her producing credits include E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Back to the Future, and Jurassic Park.
Replaces Peter Rice
She replaces Peter Rice as head of ceremonies and content, while Rice remains as executive producer for the Games.
Casey Wasserman praises appointment
LA28 chairperson Casey Wasserman called Kennedy “one of Hollywood’s all-time greats” with a rare gift for storytelling, saying she is the ideal choice to conjure Hollywood magic for the global audience.
Ceremony dates and venues
The Olympic opening ceremony is set for July 14, 2028, at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, with the closing ceremony on July 30 at the Coliseum. The Paralympic opening ceremony will take place at SoFi Stadium on August 15, followed by the closing ceremony at the Coliseum on August 27.
Official slogan unveiled
Organizers also revealed “Stars Align” as the official slogan for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
