Actor Harrison Ford has reflected on his over 40 year relationship with his beloved character Indiana Jones.
Following the success of his role as Han Solo in the original Star Wars trilogy, Ford stepped into the role of the adventurous archaeologist in the 1981 film Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Now, over five films and 40 years later, 80-year-old Ford has reprised his role for the final time, with Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny set for release at the end of June 2023.
Reflecting on his final day on-set, Ford told Digital Spy, “The feeling I had is the feeling you have when you’ve made something, and you can look at it, or you can remember having made it, [and having] the satisfaction of putting work in, and getting something worthy out of it.”
“We’re coming to an end of Indiana Jones’ time on the planet, and I wanted to see a conclusion of his story that accommodated the reality of his age, and what that effect has on this person that we’ve come to know over the years,” he added.
Ford also shared his personal insight into the franchise’s longevity and resonance with fans, telling BBC Radio 1’s Ali Plumb, “I think the thing I admire about [the Indiana Jones films] is the depth and subtlety of emotion, and the importance of emotion in these films.”
Following the movie legend’s reflection, Plumb offered a heartfelt message to Ford, telling the actor, “Can I just say, on behalf of all the fans, thank you. It’s been such an adventure. We love you so much. I don’t want to make you blush or anything, but you mean the world to us.”
Ford was visibly moved by Plumb’s genuine sincerity, with the actor beginning to tear up at his kind words.
“Let me say to you, thank you sincerely. It means the world to me,” said Ford.