Harrison Ford has spoken out about why he decided to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In October 2022, it was announced that Ford had been cast as General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross, a character formerly played by the late William Hurt. Ross is one of the MCU's longest-running characters, having appeared in the very first film, The Incredible Hulk, with four more appearances since then. Ford has been announced to appear in both Captain America: New World Order and Thunderbolts, and it's likely that he will also appear in more future projects.

Ford recently delivered a very simple answer as to why he finally decided to join the MCU in a conversation with The Playlist. It was surprising the A-lister would ever answer the Marvel call considering so many years have already passed without any appearances or apparent interest. Though Phase 5 of the MCU will be well underway by the time Ford finally makes his first appearance, it's better late than never for one of Hollywood's all-time greatest stars. His full quote can be read below:

"Hey, look, I’ve done a lot of things. I now want to do some of the things I haven’t done."

Related: Thunderbolts Has A Guardians Of The Galaxy Mystery To Explain

Why Harrison Ford's Casting In The MCU Is A Big Deal

Blended image of Harrison Ford as Deckard looking neutral in Blade Runner 2049 and a comic book Red Hulk looking angry

Ford is one of the most recognizable actors of all time, and the MCU was the 'missing piece until now, succeeding William Hurt in the role of Ross. He has played countless iconic characters, including Han Solo in the Star Wars franchise, the titular archeologist in the Indiana Jones series, and Deckard in Blade Runner. The MCU isn't lacking in star power, but Ford's introduction into the pantheon can only boost its image. With upcoming appearances in the Yellowstone prequel 1923 and the heavily anticipated Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, he is far from finished. Having pioneered two of the biggest franchises of all time, Ford now has the chance to play a massive part in MCU's Phase 5.

What We Know So Far About Harrison Ford's Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross

Blended image of Harrison Ford looking concerned, with an angry red Hulk and the Thunderbolt teams lined up and posing

Ross' last appearance came in Black Widow, as he chased Natasha Romanoff for defying the Sokovia Accords. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law confirmed that these accords are no longer valid, and so Ross' character is left with several possibilities. One of the most likely options for the character is his inevitable transformation into the Red Hulk. Interestingly, when asked whether he had performed in a motion-capture suit, Ford simply made a "zipped-lips" motion. In the comics, Ross becomes an antagonistic, red version of the Hulk that comes equipped with his ruthlessness and military aptitude. Ross' appearances in the MCU have been in villainous capacities, so it would make sense to continue this trend.

Captain America: New World Order will introduce Ford's version of Ross, and it seems likely that he will have a huge role as an antagonist alongside the Leader – another villain returning from The Incredible Hulk. He will almost certainly have a huge part in Thunderbolts, likely forming the eponymous team of morally gray rogues. It's unknown what will motivate Ross' actions, but he already has a history with the new Captain America, Sam Wilson, as he opposed the Sokovia Accords. This rivalry could drive Captain America: New World Order and potentially lead directly into Thunderbolts. If he is destined to transform into the Red Hulk, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has gained a truly fearsome adversary.

More: Harrison Ford's MCU Role Means Thunderbolt Ross Is Bigger Than Ever - Why?

Source: The Playlist

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