Harrison Ford delivered an emotional speech as he accepted the Life Achievement Award at the Actor Awards in Los Angeles, struggling to hold back tears. The 83-year-old actor, known for iconic roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones, was honoured by his peers at the ceremony formerly known as the SAG Awards.
Ford began his speech with humour, joking that it was 'a little weird to be receiving a lifetime achievement award at the half point of my career.' He quipped that he was there to 'receive a prize for being alive.' However, the tone soon turned poignant as he reflected on his journey.
'Sometimes we make entertainment; sometimes we make art. Sometimes we're lucky to make 'em both at the same time,' Ford said. He emphasised the responsibility that comes with success: 'to support each other, to lift others up when we can, to keep the door open for the next kid, the next lost boy who's looking for a place to belong.'
The actor, who has nearly 90 acting credits, revealed he was 'not an overnight success' and had 'struggled for about 15 years going from acting job to carpentry and back to acting' before landing his breakthrough role in Star Wars. He thanked his wife Calista, his family, and key figures including George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, and the late casting director Fred Roos.
Several actors in the audience, including Timothée Chalamet and Sam Rockwell, were seen holding back tears. Social media users praised the speech, with one commenting: 'I've never seen so many grown men cry.'
Ford joins a list of recent honourees including Jane Fonda, Barbra Streisand, and Sally Field. SAG-AFTRA president Sean Astin said Ford's 'iconic characters have shaped world culture' and praised his 'indelible impact on our craft.'
