Harrison Ford Scoffs at ‘1923’ Challenges—Says Horseback Stunts Are ‘No Big Deal’

At 82 years old, Harrison Ford continues to defy expectations, and his role as Jacob Dutton in 1923, the Yellowstone prequel series, is no exception. Despite galloping across Montana’s rugged terrain, wielding a gun in hand, Ford laughs off the notion that the physical demands of his character are in any way daunting. When asked about the challenges of his role, Ford downplays the difficulties of horseback riding and stunt work, maintaining his trademark irascible humor.

“I think the demands are not really as daunting as they look,” Ford told People, shrugging off the notion that riding horses through the harsh Montana landscape and performing stunts requires any special skill or danger. “Maybe from a contemporary point of view, the horses represent something—some special skill or danger—but they really are not.”

While Ford may not be fazed by the physical requirements of the show, his co-star, Helen Mirren, who plays his onscreen wife Cara Dutton, couldn’t disagree more. “Harrison says that because he’s a great rider,” she commented. “I was incredibly impressed, I have to say, with watching him gallop off across the Montana hillside.”

Ford, ever the modest actor, refused to accept the compliment, attributing his smooth riding to the quality of his horse. “I had a fantastic horse,” he said, diverting attention away from his own ability. However, Mirren wasn’t buying it. “That’s what great riders always say. That’s what makes you a great rider,” she quipped, further praising Ford’s skill.

As the second season of 1923 unfolds, the Duttons face increasingly brutal winter conditions, trying to survive on their Montana ranch while dealing with enemies and harsh realities. Meanwhile, their nephew Spencer (Brandon Sklenar) embarks on a desperate journey to reunite with his family. Given the historical context, Ford’s comments about the physical demands of the show seem reasonable. Although Ford might not view the physical work as extraordinary, he does acknowledge the intense nature of the historical setting in which he and Mirren are acting.

“It’s an intensely physical reality that we’re seeing,” Ford explained, noting the harsh early 20th-century Montana environment where the Duttons must defend their land from ruthless enemies. The weather and the constant threats are a reminder of the brutal life the characters must endure to survive.

While 1923 has received critical acclaim, achieving a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score, viewer reception of the Season 2 premiere has been more mixed, with only 49% of viewers giving it a positive review. This suggests that while the series is growing in popularity, it still has some work to do to win over the entire fan base.

The drama, set in the rugged Montana wilderness, is filled with intense physical challenges, emotional stakes, and political intrigue, and it continues to unfold every Sunday on Paramount+. With plenty of story left to tell, 1923 is keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on 1923 and the latest news surrounding the Yellowstone franchise.