Driving Force Behind Disney's Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser Leaves WDI for Gensler, Joining Former Chief Bob Weis

Ann Morrow Johnson, former Global Head of Creative Development at Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI), has joined the prominent architecture and design firm Gensler. Johnson will serve as Design Director and Global Entertainment Leader for Gensler's Entertainment and Experience Design Practice, partnering with Lexi Barry as co-leaders of the practice globally.

This announcement marks the latest high-profile transition of creative talent from Disney to Gensler, following the earlier move of Bob Weis, former head of WDI.

Gensler is a global design and architecture firm with a broad portfolio, ranging from office buildings to urban planning. Established in 1965, it has over 6,000 employees working in more than 100 countries. The firm's work spans multiple sectors, including entertainment, commercial, and residential projects.

Ann Morrow Johnson (center) during an Imagineering roundtable Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser

Johnson's time at Disney was most notable for work on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. The immersive two-night experience, designed to simulate a voyage aboard the starship Halcyon, allowed guests to live out their own Star Wars adventure. The project was praised for its innovative approach to storytelling, combining live-action role-play with interactive elements and detailed set designs.

Ann Morrow Johnson on the bridge of the Halcyon

However, despite the initial excitement and positive early reviews, the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser experienced a sudden closure less than two years after its opening. The decision to shut down the Starcruiser so soon was unexpected, leading to speculation about the factors behind it. A lofty price tag of around $5200 for the two-day, two-night experience, combined with high operational costs and the challenge of maintaining such a highly immersive and staff-intensive experience, are thought to be among the reasons for its demise. The closure left many fans disappointed, marking a bittersweet chapter in Disney's efforts to push the boundaries of themed entertainment.

Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser overview

Bob Weis, Entertainment Leader at Gensler, expressed enthusiasm for Johnson's appointment, stating, "Ann Morrow Johnson is the creative leader the Gensler Entertainment Practice needs at this moment as we continue to see exciting growth and momentum. Her extensive global experience in immersive experience design and storytelling, coupled with a solid foundation in development strategy and architecture makes her one of the industry's most sought-after leaders."

Ann Morrow Johnson and Scott Trowbridge for Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser