Marcia Lucas, Oscar-winning ‘Star Wars’ editor, dies at 80
Marcia Lucas (Getty Images)
Marcia Lucas, an Oscar-winning editor of the original "Star Wars" and the ex-wife of "Star Wars" creator George Lucas, has died.
She was 80.
Marcia Lucas’s death
What they're saying:
Lucas died in Rancho Mirage, California, Wednesday from metastatic cancer, surrounded by loved ones, a family attorney told The Associated Press.
"Her influence on film is indelible, but those who knew her best will remember the way she made life feel more vivid, more beautiful, more fun, and more full of love," a family statement said. "Her work was known for its emotional intelligence, rhythm, and humanity — a rare ability to find the truth of a scene and bring heart, momentum, and clarity to the screen."
Marcia Lucas’s life
The backstory:
Marcia Lucas was often described as an unsung hero of "Star Wars." In addition to the original, she was also an editor on 1983’s "Return of the Jedi" and the pre-"Star Wars" George Lucas-directed films "THX 1138" and "American Graffiti."
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She was married to "Star Wars" creator George Lucas from 1969-1983, and is credited with convincing her husband that Obi-Wan Kenobi should battle Darth Vader with a light saber and become a spirit guide to Luke Skywalker.
George Lucas and Marcia Lucas attend an event celebrating the release of "New York, New York," beginning with a gala screening at Lincoln Center and continuing with an afterparty at Studio 54, in New York City on June 21, 1977. (Photo by Lynn Karlin/
She was also part of the editing team for director Martin Scorsese’s 1970s films "Taxi Driver," "Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore" and "New York, New York."
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After divorcing George Lucas, she married Tom Rodrigues, a production manager at the Skywalker Ranch production center. They were married from 1983 to 1993.
Marcia Lucas is survived by her daughters, Amanda Lucas and Amy Soper, and grandchildren Felix Hallikainen, Aeliana Hallikainen and Knox Soper.
The Source: This report includes information from The Associated Press.