Harrison Ford opened up about the realities of love and aging during his appearance on NPR‘s Wild Card with Rachel Martin. The 83-year-old actor, widely recognized for his roles in Hollywood hits like Indiana Jones and Star Wars, discussed his experiences with long-term relationships, including his marriage to Calista Flockhart.
When asked about the lessons age has taught him about love, Ford emphasized that “Old people can love, too,” highlighting that love is not exclusive to youth but a continuous effort regardless of age.
The Challenges and Commitment Behind Lasting Love
Ford reflected on the misconceptions surrounding love, explaining that people often associate falling in love with youth, but the true challenge lies in maintaining and nurturing that love over time. He described the process of sustaining a relationship as daily work, requiring dedication to not “f— up.”
Rachel Martin acknowledged this effort, stating,
“We all who are in love or in relationships work on that every day,”
to which Ford humorously added that some days come with “bad behavior.”
Life-Long Experience with Marriage
When asked about the length of his marriages, Ford remarked that if he considered all of his marriages collectively, he’d say he’s been married his whole life. He shared that he first married at 23, a youthful age he jokingly suggested should be illegal.
Ford’s first marriage, beginning in 1964 with Mary Marquardt, produced two children before they divorced. He later married screenwriter Melissa Mathison, with whom he had two more children, ending that marriage in 2004.
Reflecting on his past marriages, Ford noted,
“Things turned out all right for everybody,”
signaling a sense of acceptance.
Optimism in New Beginnings and Lasting Partnerships
Martin observed that remarrying is a hopeful act, implying that Ford remained positive about marriage despite past experiences. Since 2010, Ford has been married to Calista Flockhart, who has become a central figure in his life, especially after Ford adopted her son, Liam.
Ford expressed his affection plainly, saying,
“I like everybody else, just like everybody else, I love being in love.”
Emotional Tribute at the Critics Choice Awards
Ford’s devotion to Flockhart surfaced during his acceptance of the 2024 Critics Choice Awards career achievement honor. He emotionally thanked his wife, highlighting the significant support she provides him.
Fighting back tears, Ford said,
“I want to thank my lovely wife, Calista Flockhart, who supports me when I need a lot of support,”
as the audience applauded. With Flockhart visibly moved, he added,
“and I need a lot of support.”
The Enduring Power of Love Through Life’s Stages
Harrison Ford’s reflections underscore the complex and ongoing nature of love, proving that it evolves and deepens with age rather than fades. His experiences illustrate the commitment required to sustain relationships and the optimism that fuels new beginnings. As Ford continues to cherish his marriage to Flockhart, his story offers a resonant message about the enduring power of love at any age.
