Ridley Scott Reveals Financiers Questioned Casting Harrison Ford in 'Blade Runner'

The director defended his decision to cast Ford, who was not yet a household name, as the lead in the 1982 sci-fi classic.

Ridley Scott shared in a GQ interview that financiers of 'Blade Runner' were skeptical about casting Harrison Ford as the lead, questioning his star power at the time.
Ford had appeared as Han Solo in 'Star Wars' and was filming 'Raiders of the Lost Ark,' but had not yet achieved widespread recognition as a leading man.
Scott responded to the financiers' doubts by asserting, 'You’re going to find out,' and proceeded to cast Ford as Rick Deckard, the titular Blade Runner.
The 1982 film, which initially received mixed critical and box office reception, later became a cult classic and launched a franchise including a sequel and upcoming TV series.
Harrison Ford went on to become one of Hollywood's most iconic actors, with major roles in franchises like 'Indiana Jones' and 'Star Wars' as well as acclaimed performances in films like 'The Fugitive.'