Harrison Ford Slams “Silly” Actors Avoiding Marvel: “We’re Missing Out on Great Experiences!”

Harrison Ford has spoken out against actors who shy away from joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), calling it “silly” to avoid roles in the iconic franchise. The 82-year-old Hollywood legend, who will soon join the MCU in Captain America: Brave New World as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, aka Red Hulk, has firmly stated that avoiding Marvel films is a missed opportunity for any actor looking to be part of something special in the modern cinematic landscape.

In a candid interview with GQ Magazine, Ford explained his thoughts on the matter. “We’re silly if we sit around regretting the change and don’t participate,” he said. “I’m participating in a new part of the business that, for me at least, I think is really producing some good experiences for an audience. I enjoy that.” For Ford, the MCU represents a vibrant chapter in film history, one that allows actors to reach a vast audience while being part of groundbreaking cinematic storytelling.

Ford, who is no stranger to blockbuster franchises—having played Han Solo in Star Wars and Indiana Jones in the beloved adventure series—has a unique perspective on big franchises and their cultural impact. While he appreciates the appeal of other types of films, Ford acknowledges the evolution of cinema and the role of superhero films in shaping the modern movie landscape.

“I understand the appeal of other kinds of films besides the kind we made in the Eighties and Nineties,” he said. “I don’t have anything general to say about it. It’s the condition our condition is in, and things change and morph and go on.” His comments reflect a pragmatic acceptance of change in the film industry, understanding that what may seem novel or unconventional today could become a new standard tomorrow.

Ford’s remarks come in the wake of criticism from several Hollywood stars about the rise of superhero films, particularly those within the Marvel Universe. Directors like Quentin Tarantino and filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese have famously critiqued the MCU’s dominance, with Tarantino arguing that actors like Chris Evans are now more recognized for their superhero roles than for their individual performances as movie stars.

In response to the idea that Marvel films are responsible for the so-called “death” of traditional movie stars, Ford was clear and direct: “Oh, I think it’s rubbish.” He continued, “I don’t think the question is whether or not there are any movie stars. There’s wonderful actors coming up every day. Whether or not they become movie stars is really not the point. If movies need stars, they will find them.”

Ford, ever the humble artist, also emphasized that he has never viewed himself as a “movie star.” For him, the essence of acting lies not in fame but in storytelling. “I’ve never f***ing understood being a movie star. I’m an actor. I tell stories. I’m part of a group of people who work together, collaborate on telling stories. I’m an assistant storyteller. That’s what I am.”

This perspective is a stark contrast to the frustrations expressed by other big-name filmmakers and actors, some of whom have criticized the superhero genre for overshadowing traditional, character-driven cinema. Even within the MCU, actors like Robert Downey Jr. and Christian Bale have shared mixed feelings about their experiences in the franchise.

Nevertheless, Ford remains a strong advocate for the storytelling potential of Marvel films, seeing them not as a threat to the art of cinema but as a significant evolution within it. He’s optimistic about the future of the MCU and the broader industry, acknowledging that actors and filmmakers must adapt to the changing times if they hope to remain relevant.

For Ford, the Marvel experience has been nothing short of exciting, and he encourages other actors to embrace the opportunity. “We’re missing out on great experiences if we don’t participate,” he concluded, with characteristic passion and honesty.

As Ford prepares to bring his iconic talent to the MCU, fans are eagerly awaiting what he will bring to the role of Red Hulk. His open-minded approach to the changing landscape of film may just inspire a new generation of actors to take part in the Marvel phenomenon—and who knows, we may see more Hollywood legends join the MCU in the years to come.