Why Harrison Ford Has No Interest In Directing His Own Films

There are countless Hollywood A-listers who have tried their hand at directing following a successful career as an actor, with various levels of success. There are folks like Clint Eastwood, who went from playing some of the most memorable roles in cinematic history to winning multiple Academy Awards for directing, but there are far more examples like Johnny Depp, who made the self-absorbed decision to direct and star in the Indigenous film "The Brave," a movie that was so poorly received it was never given a formal release in the United States. No matter how long a person has been acting in the industry, directing is an entirely different beast.

Directors are in a never ending battle against time, resources, and studio notes, not to mention navigating the multiple departments necessary to bring a film to life, and the possibility of having to contend with the big personalities of actors. For some, the challenge is exciting and a great way to flex creative muscles, but for others, it's simply not worth the headache. Despite his proven instincts for knowing a good film when he sees it, Harrison Ford has intentionally never directed a film of his own. After over half of a century in the business, Ford is very comfortable focusing on acting, because if you ask him, the juice ain't worth the squeeze when it comes to directing.

Harrison Ford made the decision to never direct many, many years ago, as was documented by Time Magazine. All the way back in 2010, Ford answered burning fan questions mailed to the publication, including one fan from Australia who asked, 'Have you ever wanted to direct one of your own films?" Harrison Ford's response was, understandably, an extremely "Harrison Ford" take on the world of directing. Here's what he had to say:

"No. It's the hardest job in the world. It takes too long and doesn't pay well enough. After he directed his first movie, Bob Hoskins said it was 'Like being pecked to death by penguins.' Bill Murray said, 'It's seven times more work for the same money.' I love the collaboration. I love to work with a director. That's the fun part."

Harrison Ford has worked with some of the most incredible directors in film history, so unless he had the compulsion to create a film through his vision, there's no real reason for him to ever pursue directing. The man has starred in multiple blockbuster franchises; the last thing he needs is to feel the proverbial sensation of being pecked to death by penguins. Harrison Ford knows his worth, knows his passions, and is sticking to it. He's a living legend for a reason.