Frequently when an actor takes on an iconic role in a film franchise or television series, they become “pigeon-holed” and “type-cast” which often results in a difficulty of landing roles.
One time carpenter Harrison Ford has avoided that problem to become an integral part of not one but TWO film franchises.
Describing himself as a “physical actor”, the now 83-year-old Harrison Ford is instantly recognizable as Han Solo from the “Star Wars” films and as Indy (Henry Jones Jr) in the “Indiana Jones” film franchise.
After such a storied career that also includes “Blade Runner”, “The Fugitive”, and the crime drama “Witness” that was filmed in Amish country; the actors union SAG-AFTRA will be honouring Ford with their Lifetime Achievement Award in March.
SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin spoke on Ford via statement saying, “Harrison Ford is a singular presence in American life; an actor whose iconic characters have shaped world culture. We are honored to celebrate a legend whose impact on our craft is indelible.”
Renaming themselves Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, SAG-AFTRA will present the award to Ford as a part of their annual awards presentation on March 1. Netflix will be carrying the gala event live.
A recipient of the Critics Choice Career Achievement Award, Golden Globes Cecil B. DeMille Award, and the AFI Life Achievement Award; ford said via statement, “I am deeply honored to be chosen as this year’s recipient of the SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award. To be acknowledged by my fellow actors means a great deal to me. I’ve spent most of my life on film sets, working alongside incredible actors and crews, and I’ve always felt grateful to be part of this community.”
The union says their Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to actors who “demonstrates the finest ideals of the acting profession. It also recognizes his work on various humanitarian and environmental causes.”