Harrison Ford Tears Up As Fans Thank Him For ‘Indiana Jones’ Franchise

Harrison Ford is widely known for his portrayal of the character Indiana Jones in the film series of the same name, which was created by filmmaker George Lucas and directed by Steven Spielberg. The Indiana Jones franchise has become one of the most successful and beloved adventure film series of all time. Although Ford had previously worked with Lucas on Star Wars, he was not the initial choice for Indiana Jones as it had been offered to Tom Selleck, known for his role in the television series Magnum, P.I.

However, the 80-year-old’s opportunity came after Selleck turned down the role and was asked to read lines for the auditions. As he got into the character, Spielberg and Lucas realized that he had the perfect combination of charm, wit, and ruggedness they were looking for in Indiana Jones; thus, they offered him the role. This unexpected turn of events led to the creation of one of the most iconic characters in the history of film, as he has been featured in five installments of the franchise.

The actor gets emotional while reflecting on his ‘Indiana Jones’ journey

Harrison Ford took time out to reflect on the timeless heritage of his character and his time on the movie set. During an interview with BBC Radio 1, the 80-year-old became emotional as journalist Ali Plumb expressed gratitude for his remarkable contributions as the beloved protagonist of the film series.

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“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,” Plumb said. “Thank you, that’s all I have to say.” Ford also expressed his gratitude for having been able to embody the character to the delight of fans. “And I must say to you, thank you, sincerely,” he said. “It means the world to me.”

Harrison Ford shares insight into the continued success of the ‘Indiana Jones’ franchise

During the Interview, Ford explained the reasons behind the franchise’s enduring success and the unwavering love it has garnered from fans throughout the years since the release of the 1981 film, Raiders of the Lost Ark. “Because of the talents of the screenwriters and directors and actors that have poured their hearts and souls into it,” he admitted to Plumb. “And the experience that I had making these five films… the films are peopled with some of the most amazing actors and characters and the stories are so compelling and they mix adventure and humor and heart.”

He also talked about the new sequel, Indiana Jones and the Dial of the Destiny, which will hit the theaters on June 30, stating that he made the movie despite his old age because he wanted to give his fans a parting gift. “As this one concerns age and frailty and changing nature of life, it was especially compelling to me because I am of that age and I wanted it to feel real for the audience,” Ford confessed. “I wanted them to see the complexity of that experience with someone they spent 40 years with.”