Paramount’s neo-Western series Yellowstone has generated two other shows in its wake: 1883 and 1923. The latter stars Harrison Ford as Jacob Dutton, patriarch of the Dutton family as they endure Prohibition, drought, and the early stages of the Great Depression. It also stars – and reunites Ford with – Helen Mirren as Cara Dutton, wife of Jacob.
With 1923 first premiering in December 2022, it’s been 36 years since Ford and Mirren worked so closely together on so big a project. But to hear Ford talk about it, it’s like they’ve been married all this time. Just this month, 1923 has been renewed for a second season. In light of this news, Ford has discussed what it’s been like reuniting with Mirren and the surprising way she behaves. Here’s what he had to say.
Harrison Ford discusses reuniting with Helen Mirren once again
The year was 1986 and The Mosquito Coast introduced viewers to the Fox family, who leaves the United States to seek a happier life in the jungles of Central America. In this film, too, Ford and Mirren led the cast as husband-and-wife duo Allie and Margot Fox. Jump to 2022 – and some years to come, thanks to 1923‘s renewal – they’re back as a wedded couple. “It was a delight,” said Ford, speaking to TODAY‘s Savannah Guthrie. “I mean, it’s almost as if we’ve been married for 40 years.” He also confirmed that she’s “still sexy.”
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Indeed, Ford had nothing but positive things to say about his colleague, adding, “She’s just a delight to work with. And she doesn’t take herself terribly seriously.” When Ford spoke with Stephen Colbert on Wednesday’s episode of The Late Show, the late-night host could confirm that assessment. Colbert revealed of Mirren, “First time she came on here, first time I ever met her, she came on and plants a wet one on me. Really grabs my head. I was paralytic for about five minutes.”
Expect the unexpected from Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford
Ford, reflecting on working with Mirren now that he’s 80 and she’s 77, said “It’s been remarkable to watch her,” adding, “There’s a lot of physical action, and she just jumps right in and does stuff you don’t imagine Helen Mirren would do … Dame Helen Mirren.” But Ford is full of surprises too, especially regarding his career, which isn’t ending any time soon.
“The idea of not working doesn’t make much sense to me,” said Ford. “It’s really where I feel most alive.” Speaking of his 1923 role, he joked, “I’m 80, and I’m playing 77. It’s a bit of a stretch.” But, at the end of the day, he says plainly, “I just want to work.”
Have you watched Yellowstone or any of its prequel shows?