Before Harrison Ford got the role, Tom Selleck was very close to being Indiana Jones. Unfortunately, Selleck had other engagements, and gave the Indiana Jones movies to Ford, who’s still grateful to this very day for the opportunity.
“Tom Selleck had the job, but he also incurred an obligation to do a television series and he was unable to get out of that contract,” Ford said at a conference arranged by Deadline. “I became the second choice, and I’m very grateful for Tom. Thank you, Tom, man. If you’re listening, thank you again.”
The TV series Selleck was committed to was Magnum PI, a show proved incredibly popular during the ’80s. Obviously, anybody would love the kind of success Indy brought Ford, but thankfully Selleck’s career wasn’t hindered without the adventure movies.
We’re all getting nostalgic about Ford’s run on Indiana Jones, a performance that’s given us some of the best family movies ever. The Indiana Jones 5 release date will be his swansong, some 42 years after Raiders of the Lost Ark debuted.
James Mangold directs Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, taking over from Steven Spielberg on the franchise. Mangold co-wrote the screenplay with Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth, and David Koepp. Joining Ford in the Indiana Jones cast this time around are Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen, Antonio Banderas, and Boyd Holbrook.
You can catch up on the previous Indiana Jones films on Disney Plus. Have a look at our list of the best Disney Plus movies and best Disney Plus shows for what else is on the platform. Ford’s jumping into the MCU as well, find out what he might be up to in our Captain America 4 release date guide.
You may enjoy our new movies guide and best movies list, as well.