If you’re a supporter of the original “Star Wars” trilogy but harbor significant doubts regarding the prequels, you’re certainly not alone. Indeed, you share this sentiment with the late Gary Kurtz, producer of “A New Hope” and “The Empire Strikes Back”. Kurtz and “Star Wars” originator George Lucas were already in conflict over the making of “Return of the Jedi,” which was initially called “Revenge of the Jedi” (Lucas altered the title prior to its release, stating that Jedi Knights shouldn’t concentrate on revenge).
The issues began when Lucas and Kurtz clashed over alterations Lucas made to “Return of the Jedi.” While Lucas famously concluded the first trilogy with a joyous celebration involving the film’s heroes and the Ewoks, the original outline crafted by the pair had envisioned an ending that Kurtz characterized as “bittersweet and poignant,” and more “emotionally nuanced.”
<p.Ultimately, by the time "Return of the Jedi" premiered in cinemas, Kurtz was no longer part of the franchise. Kurtz's successor, Howard Kazanjian, asserted in an episode of "Icons Unleashed" that Kurtz had exceeded the budget and wasn’t informed of his replacement until after he had commenced work on "Return of the Jedi." Nevertheless, Kurtz conveyed to The LA Times in 2010 that he and Lucas parted ways amicably due to creative differences, allowing Kurtz the opportunity to produce "The Dark Crystal."