Ever since his introduction in "Raiders of the Lost Ark" back in 1981, Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones has been one of the most popular movie characters in cinema history. Yet over the last few years the future of the franchise has come into doubt, with 2008's "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" being met with mixed reaction and Lucasfilm's sale to Disney in 2012. As a result, it was rumored that the studio was looking to reboot the franchise with a younger actor, with Chris Pratt mentioned as the leading candidate.
However, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy shot down those rumors, and now director Steven Spielberg has shared his thoughts on recasting the iconic role.
"I don't think anyone could replace Harrison as Indy, I don't think that's ever going to happen," Spielberg told Screen International. "It's certainly not my intention to ever have another actor step into his shoes in the way there have been many actors that have played Spider-Man or Batman. There is only going to be one actor playing Indiana Jones and that's Harrison Ford."
For die-hard fans, the thought of someone else cracking the whip or donning the famous fedora is unsettling at best. While Pratt or someone like Bradley Cooper would fit into the role, older audiences would surely miss the original version. There's something to be said for continuity, especially with such a notable and beloved portrayal.
This is not the first time Spielberg has come out in support of Ford reprising the role for a fifth film.
"Now, I'll probably do Indy 5 with Harrison," the director said to Yahoo! Movies in October after finishing up "Bridge of Spies" with Tom Hanks.
Once Disney acquired Lucasfilm, its first priority was getting the "Star Wars" universe off the ground. Now that "The Force Awakens" is finally set for release in two weeks and a series of standalone and saga films are planned, it seems as if the studio is turning its attention to "Indiana Jones." Once the ball gets rolling, expect things to move quickly.
We'll keep you updated as more details emerge.
