Terribly sad news reaches us this morning as we learn of the passing of Marcia Lucas, the first wife of George Lucas and one of the three editors (alongside Richard Chew and Paul Hirsch) who helped shape the original Star Wars and launch it into the world. Married to Lucas from 1969 to 1983, Marcia was 80 years old, and passed from cancer.
Her career encompassed a slew of classic films. She was assistant editor THX 1138, co-edited American Graffiti, and later edited Return of the Jedi, as well as a trio of films for legendary director Martin Scorsese in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Taxi Driver and New York, New York.
“Marcia will be remembered as a brilliant storyteller, a trailblazer for women in film, a loving mother and grandmother, a generous host, and a loyal friend whose humor and sparkle filled every room she entered. 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,” the 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.”
From the team at Fantha Tracks, our deepest condolences to her family, colleagues and friends. A key and irreplaceable piece in the success of Star Wars, she shall be missed.