Harrison Ford: A Disney Legend and Beyond

A night to remember at the D23 Expo

On a memorable Sunday evening at the D23 Expo, Harrison Ford was officially declared a Disney Legend. This prestigious honor from the Walt Disney Company cements Ford’s status as one of the most iconic actors in the studio’s history. With Lucasfilm under Disney’s umbrella, Ford’s legendary roles as Han Solo from Star Wars and the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones have become synonymous with the studio’s legacy.

Next February, Ford will continue his illustrious journey with Disney by starring in Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a character who transforms into the formidable Red Hulk.

A heartfelt tribute from Bob Iger

The evening began with Bob Iger taking the stage to present Ford with the first award of the night. “Before he was the captain of the Millennium Falcon or a globetrotting archaeologist, Harrison Ford was, like so many, an aspiring actor who came to Hollywood to pursue their dreams,” Iger remarked, eliciting thunderous applause at the Honda Center. “He is the definition of a leading man, who stands alone in a category all his own.”

An emotional acceptance speech

Following a montage of Ford’s most iconic work, the actor took the stage to a standing ovation. In a nod to one of his most famous Star Wars moments, he told the crowd, “I love you, too,” a heartfelt twist on Han Solo’s iconic line, “I know.”

“I love the life you’ve given me. I love the people that I’ve had the opportunity to work with. Nobody does anything in this business for long. We work in collaboration, no matter who we are and what we’re doing,” Ford continued, visibly moved.

Ford described himself as an “assistant storyteller,” adding, “The stories are for you, about you, about us. To be able to work in that area is a privilege.” He also took a moment to thank Iger personally, acknowledging his significant role in Ford’s career and their friendship.

Honoring the legends of Lucasfilm

Ford’s acceptance speech was one of the highlights of the evening, which also saw Star Wars and Indiana Jones composer John Williams and Frank Oz, the voice behind Jedi master Yoda, inducted as Disney Legends. This trio joins an illustrious group of Lucasfilm alumni, including George Lucas, Mark Hamill, the late Carrie Fisher, James Earl Jones, Jon Favreau, and Ming-Na Wen.

Celebrating the class of 2024

The full class of 2024 honorees includes a diverse array of talent: Oscar-winning costume designer Colleen Atwood, Black Panther star and Oscar nominee Angela Bassett, the first Black Disney tour guide Martha Blanding, TV and film icon and Oscar winner James L. Brooks, Avatar mastermind and Oscar winner James Cameron, Freaky Friday star and Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis, Grammy winner and Hannah Montana star Miley Cyrus, comic book artist Steve Ditko, animator Mark Henn, Emmy-winning TV host Kelly Ripa, and Disney Imagineer executive Joe Rohde. The ceremony will stream on Disney+ in the U.S. and Canada, starting Monday, Aug. 12.

A trend of heartfelt moments

This isn’t the first time Ford has shown his emotional side on stage. In January, he was visibly moved while accepting the career achievement award from the Critics Choice Association. “I’m here because of a combination of luck and the work of wonderful directors, writers, and filmmakers. I feel enormously lucky,” Ford told the A-list crowd, his voice filled with gratitude.

He grew more emotional as he thanked his wife, Calista Flockhart, who “supports me when I need a lot of support — and I need a lot of support.” He also saluted his co-stars, many of whom were present, like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom actor Ke Huy Quan. “I’m grateful to all the fine actors I’ve worked with and I’m deeply happy to have had the opportunities that I’ve had.”

Links to explore

For those eager to dive deeper into Ford’s legendary roles, here are some direct links to trailers and information pages:

Harrison Ford’s journey from an aspiring actor to a Disney Legend is a testament to his enduring talent and the collaborative spirit of the film industry. His heartfelt speeches and genuine gratitude continue to inspire fans and fellow actors alike.