Harrison Ford Emphasizes the Importance of Work for Human Connection
Harrison Ford on Why He Continues to Work: The Joy of Human Connection
At 82, Harrison Ford doesn’t need to work; his illustrious career has taken him from outer space to hidden treasures, and he’s played a myriad of iconic roles. Yet, he still finds time for a low-key project like the Apple TV+ series “Shrinking,” which delves into the lives of mental health professionals trying to practice what they preach.
In “Shrinking,” co-created by Bill Lawrence, Jason Segel, and Brett Goldstein, Ford plays Paul, a head of a cognitive behavioral therapy practice who faces Parkinson’s disease and a meddling group of colleagues. This role allows Ford to showcase his comedic side, but as he shared in a recent Vanity Fair interview, it’s not just the humor that drew him in. “Oh man, I get essential human contact,” he said. “I get to collaborate with people who have great skill and experience… It’s fun to work with these people.”
Bill Lawrence believes Ford is perfect for the role because he can balance seriousness with humor. Ford agrees but emphasizes that the strong writing allows him to explore his character’s depth. “You really believe that the character believes what he’s talking about,” he said. “When the material has such range and depth, you can weave in humor that serves both serious and entertaining purposes.”
While Ford is clearly enjoying the comedic elements of the show, he approaches scenes—whether humorous or dramatic—similarly. “I’ve always enjoyed humor and the construction of jokes,” he explained. “When I was considering acting, I wanted to pursue both serious drama and comedy. I found myself doing both without much distinction between them.”
Ford also noted that the collaborative environment makes the work even more enjoyable. “I’m quite goofy on my own. But when I’m with other people who are also goofy, it creates a relaxed atmosphere,” he said. “I like to have fun and be around people who are enjoying themselves. I don’t like to get too serious.”
