Harrison Ford, the iconic actor known for his roles in film classics like "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones," recently took part in an interview on NPR’s "Wild Card with Rachel Martin" where he shared reflections on love, aging, and relationships. The 83-year-old actor, who recently celebrated his third marriage to Calista Flockhart, challenged the common misconception that falling in love and maintaining a romantic connection is solely a youthful endeavor. "Old people can love, too," Ford said during the interview, emphasizing that the capacity for love does not diminish with age. He noted that while the idea of falling in love might be associated with youth, staying in love is the real challenge. "Maintaining, nurturing, basically, not f—— up," he added with a touch of humor. Ford’s comments underscore the importance of intentional efforts in sustaining love at any age, a perspective that resonates with many who have navigated the complexities of long-term relationships.
The actor’s reflections were framed within the context of his own life experiences, including his first marriage at 23 to Mary Marquardt, which ended in divorce in 1979. His second marriage, to screenwriter Melissa Mathison, lasted until 2004. Ford’s third marriage to Flockhart, which began in June 2010, has been a source of personal fulfillment and growth. He described his current marriage as something he has "always had" and expressed a deep appreciation for the way love can evolve. He also humorously acknowledged the need for "some days off for bad behavior," suggesting that even in long-term relationships, there are moments when couples need to give each other space to reflect and grow.
In addition to personal insights, Ford shared how his marriage has influenced his approach to his career and family life. He highlighted his role as a stepfather to Flockhart’s son, Liam, whom she adopted in 2001. Ford expressed admiration for Flockhart’s decision to become a single parent and how it has enriched his family dynamic. "She’s brought a child back into my home," he said, describing the experience as "wonderful" and emphasizing the joy that comes with being part of a child’s life. The couple has been a strong support system for each other, often appearing together at events such as award shows and premieres.
Ford’s views on love and relationships have also extended to his professional life. His recent Emmy nomination for his role in "Shrinking" has been a significant highlight, and he spoke about the fulfillment he finds in working close to home, where he can enjoy the comfort of family and friends. "This is the best job I’ve ever had," he told Us Weekly, noting the balance between his professional achievements and personal relationships. His approach to both personal and professional life demonstrates a commitment to nurturing love and connection across all aspects of his life.
The interview provided an opportunity for Ford to share not only his personal reflections but also the broader theme of love as a journey that continues throughout life. His words resonate with the idea that love is not confined to any particular age or stage, and that maintaining it requires effort, understanding, and a willingness to grow. As Ford continues to navigate love, aging, and his career, his perspective offers a thoughtful reminder of the enduring nature of affection and the importance of nurturing relationships at every stage of life.