Indiana Jones Franchise Could Live On Sans Harrison Ford, Hints Lucasfilm Boss

Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy has hinted that the Indiana Jones franchise may have a future beyond its lead star, Harrison Ford. Despite Ford's insistence that the upcoming film, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, will be his final portrayal of the iconic archaeologist, Kennedy suggested that the franchise could continue without him. Appearing on the Dagobah Dispatch: An EW Star Wars Podcast, Kennedy suggested that the future of the franchise "might be in series television," but emphasized that the character of Indiana Jones should not be recast. While Disney had previously called Dial of Destiny the end of the entire franchise, both Kennedy and Disney CEO Bob Iger have since walked back that statement.

It's the final chapter of Harrison Ford's journey as Indiana Jones. The franchise is viewed in this way; there are currently no plans to replace him. Although there may be potential for a future series on television, we are not seeking to replace the iconic Indiana Jones character. Harrison Ford is integral to the role and has created a unique and unforgettable character. Both Steven Spielberg and myself agree that it simply wouldn't be the same without him.

The Indiana Jones franchise's future is uncertain due to conflicting information. It appears that Ford, the lead star, wants to retire his bullwhip and fedora after five movies. However, executives such as Iger and Kennedy are reluctant to let go of the lucrative IP. Kennedy's statement about the franchise having a future in "series television" is consistent with Lucasfilm's development of an Indiana Jones TV show for Disney+. However, the series will not revolve around Indy or Helena, as per James Mangold's announcement.

Ford has stated that he believes Dial of Destiny will be his last performance as Indiana Jones, and that the film will bring the franchise to a satisfying close. However, early reviews for the film have not been kind, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it one of the lowest scores in the series. While Disney and Lucasfilm have not made any official announcements about the future of the franchise, they are likely waiting to see how the upcoming fifth film performs at the box office. If it's a success, there may still be hope for more adventures with Indy.