Harrison Ford Recalls How Jimmy Buffett Inspired His Spontaneous Ear Piercing

At the star-studded Keep the Party Going: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett event held at the Hollywood Bowl on April 12, 2024, Harrison Ford shared a delightfully candid and humorous story that revealed the unique and infectious spirit of the late singer-songwriter.

The tribute honored Jimmy Buffett, who passed away in September 2023 at age 76 after a battle with skin cancer. The event featured a dazzling lineup of performers and speakers, including Paul McCartney, The Eagles, Sheryl Crow, Jon Bon Jovi, Snoop Dogg, Kenny Chesney, Brandi Carlile, Eric Church, Jane Fonda, and Woody Harrelson. Among them, 81-year-old Ford offered a personal glimpse into his friendship with Buffett and the lasting influence the musician had on him.

A Lunch That Changed Everything

Ford recalled a memorable lunch he shared with Jimmy Buffett and the late news anchor Ed Bradley—who was celebrating his birthday that day. Describing the gathering as “long — some might say boozy,” Ford painted a picture of a relaxed, festive atmosphere. During this meal, Ford noticed that both Buffett and Bradley sported earrings, a detail that unexpectedly inspired him to get his own ear pierced immediately afterward.

“That’s just how infectious Jimmy’s coolness is — infectious enough for a 40-year-old man to spontaneously get his f—ing ear pierced,” Ford joked, eliciting laughter and applause from the crowd. Though he referenced being 40 at the time, reports suggest the piercing actually happened when Ford was in his mid-50s—likely in 1997—making the comment more a playful exaggeration than a factual slip.

A Friendship Rooted in More Than Music

Ford’s story went beyond the piercing anecdote, highlighting the deep bond he shared with Buffett, both pilots and friends. Ford recalled Buffett’s laid-back motto, “S— happens,” which resonated profoundly after Ford’s own 2015 plane crash in Santa Monica, where he survived a harrowing emergency landing with serious injuries.

This personal connection underscored the influence Buffett had not only on Ford’s style and spirit but on his outlook on life.

Celebrating a Cultural Icon

Ford’s recollections at the tribute emphasized Buffett’s remarkable ability to create a culture around his music—a culture filled with joy, camaraderie, and coolness. “There will never be another like Jimmy,” Ford concluded, capturing the essence of the evening’s sentiment.

The tribute to Buffett was a heartfelt celebration of a man whose music and personality left an indelible mark on fans, friends, and fellow artists alike. And through Ford’s spontaneous ear piercing story, attendees got a vivid reminder of Buffett’s effortless charm and enduring influence.

This charming anecdote added a personal touch to an event filled with legendary performances and poignant memories, offering fans a unique window into the playful spirit behind one of music’s most beloved icons.