Known to multiple generations as Han Solo and Indiana Jones, to say thatHarrison Fordenjoys an illustrious career. Contributing to blockbuster franchises likeStar Warsand films likePresumed InnocentandBlade Runner, Ford has been uniquely highlighted as an actor who harnesses authenticity for the greater good of the story.
Translating his talents to television, Ford has also provided stellar guest appearances and leading TV roles alike. Appearing in multiple televised westerns, Ford displays a depth in understanding of the tension, action, and contemplative moments that define the genre. In his recent years, the same understanding, alongside with his masterful sincerity, has resulted in modern audiences enjoying some of his best roles.
9’The F.B.I.' (1965)
The F.B.I.
Taking inspiration from real-life cases,The F.B.I.is a police procedural that follows the dynamic duo: Inspector Lewis Erskine (Efrem Zimbalist Jr.) and assistant director Arthur Ward (Phillip Abbott). With the former narrowly escaping an assassination attempt that made him a widow and the latter being within J. Edgar Hoover’s inner circle, the two lead with quite impressive and complex backstories. Throughout their tenure, their investigations have unearthed the seedy underbelly of everyday Americans, setting a precedent forsome of the police procedurals and crime dramasto come.
An Influential Crime Adventure
Ford would grace the series with his presence twice. Appearing as Glen Reverson and Everett Giles in the episodes “Caeser’s Wife” and “Scapegoat” respectively, Ford makes the most of his restrained time by presenting audiences with his versatility. Be it his portrayal of a suspicious son of a diplomat or a suspect clinging onto innocence, Harrison Ford adds a special intrigue to the respective mysteries.
8’Kung Fu' (1972)
Kung Fublends martial arts and cowboy-western combat skills in a dated yet popular series following the life and adventures of Kwai Chang Caine (David Carradine), a runaway turned vigilante who uses his hand-to-hand fighting skills in his justice-seeking missions. Spanning nine seasons, the series would include a bevy of guest stars ranging from Academy Award winners to novices in the industry.
A Questionable, Interesting Look At Conflict
Ford would appear as Mr. Harrison, a member of the railroad industry that offers amnesty to the landowners, left jaded by said industry’s occupation of their land. Only a year afterAmerican Graffiti, Ford’s appearance in Kung Fu stood out at the time for being a rare foray into television. Unlike the adventurous Indiana Jones, Mr. Harrison opts for a solution that does not include adrenaline-rushing action.
7’Gunsmoke' (1955)
In overtwo decades,Gunsmokehas amassed a loyal and engaged fanbase from its time on the radio through its transition into television. A classic Western story, the series follows US Marshal Matt Dillon. Portrayed by William Conrad on radio and James Arness on television, Dillon is entrusted by the citizens of Dodger City to protect their interests. Set three years after the Civil War, the series shines a light on the daily plights and moments of bliss the community experiences as they grow together.
A Western Classic Revisited
Harrison Ford first appeared in the series as “Print” in the Season 18 episode “The Sodbusters”. Making quite an impact on his initial appearance, Ford would return later in the season, portraying Hobey in the episode “Whelan’s Man.” To think, only four years later, Ford earned the iconic role of Han Solo. Looking back, his short stint onGunsmoke, one of many westerns he has guest featured on, almost seems instructive to his portrayal of Solo and later roles to come.
Why the Longest-Running Western TV Show Ended So Abruptly
After 20 seasons, the iconic Western television series Gunsmoke ended without a proper series finale.
6’The Virginian' (1962)
The Virginian
The Virginianis an American Western series starring James Drury, Doug McClure, and Lee J. Cobb. Loosely based on the Owen Wister novel of the same name, the series follows the titular character, a newcomer invited by Judge Henry (Robert Burton) to tend to the latter’s ranch. After uncovering a plot to undermine the judge’s hold over said ranch, The Virginian becomes the center point of the conflict, resulting in a decade-long tale filled with titillating tension and intriguing drama.
Stealing Shows and Hearts Simultaneously
Ford’s appearance as Cullen Tindall is noted as a very early appearance, with him being billed as “And Introducing…”. Falling in line with the show’s pacing and tone, Ford’s portrayal is both intentional, balancing between meaningful and authentic. Introduced as a crony, Cullen stirs up trouble after plans for a robbery go awry, effectively stealing the show.
10 Best Western Series to Stream on Prime
Audiences can’t get enough of gripping Westerns, and those looking to stream the fan-favorite genre can check out Prime for their latest binge-watch.
5’My Friend Tony' (1969)
My Friend Tony
My Friend Tonywas a short-lived CBS drama that aired in 1969 and starred James Whitmore and Enzo Cerusico. With the former portraying a criminology professor and the latter being a pick-pocketer-turned detective, the series focuses on the bond between mentor and mentee as much as it explores the crimes the two solve. Despite a promising premise, the series would be canceled due to low ratings.
A Concise Crime Tale
In the episode “The Hazing,” Harrison Ford would appear as himself. In the early stages of his career, a show likeMy Friend Tonylikely offered space for growth and learning, something Ford has clearly taken advantage of. Despite the series never blossoming into the fully formed story it had the potential to be,My Friend Tonyis an interesting and quick watch for curious minds.
4’Love, American Style' (1969)
Love, American Style
Love, American Styleis an anthology comedy spanning five seasons and boasting a slew of appearances from the likes of Stuart Margolin, Barbara Minkus, and Tracey Reed. Accompanied by musical moments and sketches,Love, American Styleentertained audiences for three seasons with their comical takes on romance.
A Comical Take on Young Romance
Harrison Ford would guest star in sketches alongside Jenny Sullivan in the skit “Love and the Former Marriage”. Centered around a controversial pairing between 18-year-old Julie (Sullivan) and 21-year-old Roger Crane (Ford), the sketch sees the duo bounce off of Carl Betz and Elliott Reid’s comedic timing and vice versa. Fans of the sketch found Ford to be entertaining, with some even wondering what Ford would have brought to series likeAll In The Family, a series he was considered for.
3’Dan August' (1970)
Dan August
Dan Augustwas an American drama starring Burt Reynolds as the titular detective. A clever and coy man in his own right, August stunned audiences, witnesses, and suspects and cracked cases with superhuman ease. Despite the series being canceled after a sole season,Dan Augustbecame a cult classic, resulting in several television films.
A Star-Studded Mystery
Ford guest-starred in the 22nd episode “The Manufactured Man” as Hewett, one of many suspects and guest stars. After Dan learns of a young woman’s murder, his attention towards a senator and his close circle. Joined by Billy Dee Williams, David Soul, Mickey Rooney, and Gary Busey, Harrison Ford manages to match, and at times, eclipses his peers in his performance, contributing to the captivating, hour-long investigation.
2’Ironside' (1967)
Ironsidesees Richard Burr as the titular SFPDC officer turned private detective. Over the span of eight seasons,Ironsidetakes a close look at the brain power and ambition necessary for solving mysteries. Furthermore, the series also takes pride in crafting multidimensional characters with a wide range of life experiences, contributing to the success of the series.
Dual Identities and Death Investigated
In the first season, Harrison Ford stars as Tom Stowe, the son of accused murderer Walter Stowe (Victor Jury). After being known as a troublemaker during his teenage years, Tom eventually turns his life around and graduates from Stanford. Alongside his documented growth, Tom’s confrontation with his father’s possible execution contributes immensely to the simmering tension and dread pervasive throughout the episode.
10 Action-Packed Westerns That Are Thrill Rides From Start to Finish
From dusty trails to blazing shootouts to breathtaking chases, these action-packed Western movies keep the adrenaline pumping from beginning to end.
1’The Intruders' (1970)
The Intruders
The Intrudersenvision an environment overrun by gangs led by Jesse James and Bob Younger’s gangs. With the community’s faith solely resting on the local marshal, who happens to be in the midst of internal chaos, anxiety is at an all-time high. Starring Don Murray, Anne Francis, Edmond O’Brien, and John Saxon, the circumstances that the town of Medalia finds itself in sets the stage for a worthwhile western drama.
A Slim Chance Taken
Ford portrays Carl, a local man who was initially created to be a larger player in the film’s events. According to Western film blogger Jeff Arnold, Fordsuffered an accidenton set and thus his role was reduced. Despite his relatively short scene, Ford would go on to entrench himself into the western canon, leading to exciting opportunities like his latest leading role in1923.
