Harrison Ford Lands First Career Emmy Nomination for ‘Shrinking’ and Becomes Second Oldest Nominee in Category History

After five decades as one of Hollywood’s most iconic leading men, Harrison Ford is celebrating a brand-new milestone: his first-ever Emmy nomination, at the remarkable age of 83.

On Tuesday, the Television Academy announced the nominees for the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, and among them was Ford, recognized for his supporting role in the Apple TV+ comedy “Shrinking.” It’s a history-making nod for the legendary actor, who is now the second-oldest nominee ever in the supporting actor in a comedy category, behind only Alan Arkin, who was 86 when he was nominated for “The Kominsky Method” in 2020.

A Legendary Career, a New Kind of Recognition

For generations of moviegoers, Ford’s name has been synonymous with adventure and heroism, thanks to his unforgettable turns as Han Solo in “Star Wars” and the whip-cracking archaeologist Indiana Jones. Yet for all his box office success and cultural impact, television’s top prize has remained elusive—until now.

The recognition comes after decades of blockbuster films and just one previous major awards nomination: a best actor Oscar nod for the 1985 thriller “Witness.” On television, Ford’s work had largely gone unacknowledged by the Emmys, despite critical acclaim. That changed with “Shrinking,” the Apple TV+ comedy created by Brett Goldstein, Jason Segel, and Bill Lawrence. Ford stars as Dr. Paul Rhoades, a straight-talking but warm-hearted therapist whose gruff exterior hides deep compassion—a role that critics and audiences have hailed as both hilarious and unexpectedly moving.

Ironically, Ford was overlooked for his performance in “Shrinking’s” first season, despite widespread praise. The show’s second season, which returned this year to even stronger reviews, finally brought the long-overdue Emmy nomination.

A Double Threat

This Emmy nod isn’t the only recognition Ford could have received this year. The veteran actor was also on the ballot for his role as Jacob Dutton in “1923,” the Taylor Sheridan-created “Yellowstone” prequel on Paramount+. While the nomination ultimately came for “Shrinking,” the dual consideration is a testament to Ford’s range and enduring popularity in both comedy and drama.

A Night to Watch

This year’s Emmy nominations were revealed from the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood by actors Harvey Guillén (“What We Do in the Shadows”) and Brenda Song (“Running Point”). The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, will air live on Sunday, September 14, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on CBS and stream via Paramount+.

For Ford, whose resume is already packed with pop-culture milestones, this new chapter in his career proves that it’s never too late to try something new—and be recognized for it.