Harrison Ford reflects on 6-decade career and hard-fought stardom at Actor Awards 2026

Hollywood got a little emotional, a little nostalgic, and a lot starstruck when Harrison Ford took center stage at the 2026 Actor Awards to receive the prestigious SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award.

The honour came with a touching and witty introduction from Ford’s longtime friend and fellow actor, Woody Harrelson. “Harrison is a true Renaissance man,” Harrelson told the crowd. “An iconic actor, a distinguished pilot, a master carpenter who built his own home. There’s an indescribable energy he brings to everything he does and every moment he’s on screen. And this is just a glimpse of that gritty, unforgettable magnetism.”

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Before Ford spoke, a tribute video rolled, showcasing highlights from his six-decade career from early TV appearances to his iconic roles in Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Fans and actors alike gave him a standing ovation.

When Ford finally took the microphone, he opened with humour: “I feel incredibly grateful for this kind attention. But to be clear, I also am quite humbled. That said, it is a little weird to be receiving a lifetime achievement award at the half point of my career. It’s a little weird, isn’t it? I’m still a working actor!”

Reflecting on his journey

Ford didn’t shy away from the ups and downs of his journey. “I struggled for about 15 years, going from acting job, then carpentry, and back to acting, until I finally got a part in a wildly successful film,” he admitted.

Then, with genuine appreciation, he thanked two people who shaped his career: George Lucas, creator of ‘Star Wars’, and Steven Spielberg, director of ‘Indiana Jones’.

“They were both incredibly persistent, who supported me at a time when I really needed it. I would not be here without them,” Ford said.

As he continued, Ford grew more emotional, reflecting on the nature of acting itself. “As actors, we get to live many lives. We get to explore ideas that affirm and elevate our shared experience. The stories we tell have a unique capacity to create moments of emotional connection. They bring us together. I’m indeed a lucky guy. Lucky to have found my people. Lucky to have work that challenges me. And lucky to still be doing it. And I don’t take that for granted.”