Harrison-Ford-Makes-History-First-Ever-Emmy-Nomination-at-83-for-ShrinkingHarrison Ford Makes History With First-Ever Emmy Nomination at 83 for Shrinking

After lifetime cinematic performances as Indiana Jones, Rick Deckard, and Han Solo, Harrison Ford, for the first time, entered the world of television. On July 15, 83-year-old Harrison Ford received his first-ever Emmy nomination for Shrinking, the critically acclaimed comedy on AppleTV+.The nomination is significant. 

Ford is now the second-oldest nominee in the history of the Outstanding Supporting Actor (Comedy) category, coming in behind Alan Arkin (The Kominsky Method, 2020). 

For fans, this is probably long overdue. Ford's vulnerability as Dr. Paul Rhoades, the therapist dealing with Parkinson’s, was the heart of Shrinking. 

From Movies to Series

The fact that Ford leaped into television surprised many people. He shared that he was initially reluctant and mentioned, I didn't know I would be doing a sitcom. But [co-creator] Brett Goldstein sent me a script that made me laugh and cry. In the series, Ford plays a no-nonsense mentor to Jason Segel's grieving therapist, who has lost his wife. Ford utilizes dual elements of sarcasm and unhappiness, hallmarks of his career. 

Critics praised his performance and referred to Ford's performance as a masterclass in subtlety (The Hollywood Reporter), and audiences with Hulu rallied around the fallen therapist's rich emotional life. Ford's role with the therapy group resonated with Parkinson's communities, with Ford even consulting with patients to create a sense of authenticity in the portrayal. 

Streaming Blockbuster: Ford’s Late-Career Transition  

Ford ultimately made a surprising pivot to television. While his filmy gravitas preceded him, he openly acknowledged that it wasn't something he had considered a fit for his career: “I didn't think I'd ever do a sitcom. But then Co-creator Brett Goldstein sent me a script that made me cry and laugh.” The role played by Ford was close to mythical as he became a mentor to the grieving therapist portrayed by Jason Segel. 

Both are the sarcasm and heartbreak of the character, it was a character Ford had often explored in his career. Critics acclaimed Ford's performance as a masterclass in subtlety. (The Hollywood Reporter), While audiences rally behind Rhoades, the balance of expressionless humor and emotional intelligence is maintained. 

The Road to Emmy Gold: Competition and Ceremony Information

Ford faces tough competition. In comedy, Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Bear) and Carl Clemons-Hopkins (Hacks) are the lead contenders. In the drama category, 1923 comes with fierce competition from Ford faces Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us). Shrinking’s ensemble, including Lukita Maxwell and Jessica Williams, was also nominated, indicating considerable backing.

Nate Bargatze is hosting the 77th Emmys will air live on September 14, 2025 ( Paramount +/CBS). Ford's nominations have shown that television is welcoming back seasoned talent. As Shrinking co-star Segel quipped, Harrison didn't need an Emmy - but damn - does he deserve one.

A Victory for Late-Career Artistry

At 83, Ford is not only breaking records but is also reaffirming what it means to grow old in Hollywood. His Shrinking Role is an example of humor, but also of humanity, and that stellar acting has no age boundaries. Now that Emmy night is approaching, one thing is for sure: Harrison Ford's legacy is one notch higher, richer...