March 1, 2026 Revised on March 2, 2026, at 8:44 a.m. ET
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Lifetime Achievement Award Speech
Harrison Ford finds it a bit “strange to receive a lifetime achievement award at this stage” of his career.
"Isn't it a bit early for this?" Ford, 83, remarked to the audience as they burst into laughter. "I'm still actively pursuing acting roles."
While accepting the SAG-AFTRA Life Achievement Award from his long-time associate Woody Harrelson at the 2026 Actor Awards, Ford expressed his profound gratitude, stating he was "truly thankful for this honor."
Ford’s Humble Reflections
"This is quite the honor. However, I must express my gratitude as well," the actor remarked. "I find myself among a group of talented individuals, many of whom are here due to their nominations for outstanding achievements. Meanwhile, I am here to be recognized simply for existing."
Harrison Ford expresses gratitude towards George Lucas and Steven Spielberg.
The actor, who started his journey in the 1960s, mentioned that he faced challenges for around 15 years, transitioning from acting to carpentry before returning to the stage and ultimately securing "a role in a hugely successful movie."
Gratitude for Fellow Actors
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"I couldn’t have achieved any of this alone," Ford expressed. "My gratitude goes to George Lucas and Steven Spielberg."
He expressed his gratitude to casting director Fred Roos and his manager Pat McQueeny for their support during challenging times.
A Career Still in Progress
"They were both remarkably steadfast in their encouragement during a time when I truly needed it," Ford expressed. "I wouldn't be where I am today without their support. Although they are no longer with us, I feel it is essential to express my gratitude to them."
Harrison Ford expresses that through acting, he discovered ‘a purpose, a journey in narrative.’
Harrison Ford recalled a time during his third year of college when he felt lost, isolated, and alone, until he discovered a group of individuals who were passionate about performing plays.
"Individuals I once perceived as outcasts and nerds have ultimately become my tribe," Ford remarked. "I discovered my purpose, a life immersed in storytelling … I've been fortunate to collaborate with remarkable individuals at every turn, and sharing the work we produce together with an audience is both a privilege and an honor. This privilege has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of myself."
Harrison Ford humorously remarked that while entering the entertainment industry was "a challenging endeavor," for him, "exiting it has been a difficult task, thankfully, because I truly enjoy my work."
"The opportunity to experience multiple lives is incredible. We can delve into concepts that uplift and validate our collective journey," Ford remarked. "The narratives we share possess a remarkable ability to forge emotional bonds. They unite us."
While addressing the audience, Ford remarked that although "we’re all at various points in our lives and careers in this space, we possess a shared essence. We enjoy the privilege of engaging with the realms of ideas, empathy, and creativity. At times, this leads to entertainment. At other moments, we create art. Occasionally, we are fortunate enough to achieve both simultaneously. And if we are truly lucky, we also earn a living from it."
"To ensure the door remains ajar for the next child," he remarked. "The upcoming lost boy searching for a sense of belonging."
Ford wrapped up his address by expressing that he considered himself "a fortunate individual," grateful for having discovered his community, engaged in work that pushes him, and "fortunate to still be involved in it."
"I never take that for granted," Ford remarked as the audience rose to give him a round of applause.
The yearly accolade is awarded to an actor “who embodies the ‘highest ideals of the acting profession,” as stated in a press release. “The individual receiving this honor is a distinguished performer who has played a significant role in enhancing the reputation of the acting field and has a track record of active participation in humanitarian and community service activities.”
The organization announced that Harrison Ford, the 61st individual to receive this accolade, "has enchanted audiences worldwide with his groundbreaking performances and characters that have become integral to our cultural landscape, while also making significant contributions to various humanitarian and environmental efforts."
SAG-AFTRA President Sean Astin remarked that Ford is "a performer whose legendary roles have influenced global culture."
Saman Shafiq is a prominent news journalist for USA TODAY. You can contact her at [email protected] and connect with her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.