Harrison Ford Celebrated for Iconic Roles and Lifelong Passion

The veteran actor receives a Life Achievement Award and reflects on his storied career from "Star Wars" to "Indiana Jones"

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Harrison Ford, the acclaimed actor known for his iconic roles in franchises like "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones", was recently honored with a Life Achievement Award at the Actor Awards. The 83-year-old reflected on his long and successful career, from his breakout as Han Solo to his more recent work in shows like "Shrinking". Ford also discussed his lifelong passions outside of acting, including his love of aviation and commitment to environmental causes.

Why it matters

Ford's career has spanned over five decades, making him one of the most recognizable and respected actors of his generation. His roles as Han Solo and Indiana Jones have cemented his status as a Hollywood legend, while his versatility has allowed him to take on a wide range of characters. This award celebrates Ford's remarkable longevity and impact on the entertainment industry.

The details

Born in Chicago in 1942, Ford initially pursued a career in carpentry before finding his calling in acting. He landed his breakout role as Han Solo in the original "Star Wars" film in 1977, which launched him to global fame. Over the years, he has reprised that iconic character in several "Star Wars" sequels, in addition to starring as the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones in a popular franchise. Ford has also taken on dramatic roles, earning an Oscar nomination for his performance in 1985's "Witness". Outside of acting, he is an avid pilot and environmentalist, serving as vice chair of the nonprofit Conservation International.

  • Ford was born on July 13, 1942 in Chicago, Illinois.
  • He received his Life Achievement Award at the Actor Awards on March 1, 2026.
  • Ford starred as Han Solo in the original "Star Wars" film in 1977.
  • He earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for his role in "Witness" in 1986.
  • Ford married actress Calista Flockhart in 2010, and they share a son named Liam.

The players

Harrison Ford

An acclaimed American actor known for his iconic roles in franchises like "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones", as well as his passion for aviation and environmental activism.

Calista Flockhart

Ford's wife since 2010, with whom he shares a son named Liam.

George Lucas

The filmmaker who cast Ford in the role of Han Solo in the original "Star Wars" film, launching the actor to global fame.

Steven Spielberg

The director who collaborated with Lucas to create the "Indiana Jones" franchise, which starred Ford as the adventurous archaeologist.

Mark Hamill

Ford's "Star Wars" co-star, with whom he has maintained a close friendship over the decades.

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What they’re saying

“I'm indeed a lucky guy. Lucky to have found my people, lucky to have work that challenges me, lucky to still be doing it. And I don't take that for granted.”

— Harrison Ford (Actor Awards)

“I love a challenge and the mystery of it all. ... Every moment counts, every moment is going to be judged—first by the editor, then by the audience—so I feel like I know what to do with myself when I'm working. I feel comfortable.”

— Harrison Ford (PEOPLE)

“I'd like to spend more time flying. I'd like to spend more time with my family at home.”

— Harrison Ford (WSJ. Magazine)

What’s next

Ford has indicated that he plans to scale back his acting work in the coming years to focus more on his personal passions, including flying and spending time with his family at their ranch in Wyoming.

The takeaway

Harrison Ford's remarkable career, spanning over five decades and including some of the most iconic roles in cinema history, is a testament to his talent, versatility, and enduring passion for the craft of acting. As he is honored with a Life Achievement Award, Ford's story serves as an inspiration for actors and artists alike, showing that with dedication and a willingness to take on challenging roles, one can achieve lasting success and recognition in the entertainment industry.