When Harrison Ford went on tour with The Doors
It is well-known that when you are a Hollywood icon like Harrison Ford, your entire life becomes public knowledge. Ford, famous for portraying iconic characters like Han Solo and Indiana Jones, has solidified his place in cinematic history. Despite his tremendous success, Ford has managed to remain grounded, a feat not easily achieved in the cutthroat world of Hollywood. This down-to-earth charm is likely rooted in Ford’s humble beginnings, starting his acting career with Columbia Pictures in minor roles before catapulting to fame with George Lucas’ American Graffiti.
However, there is a little-known chapter in Ford’s life that often escapes the limelight – his stint as a roadie for the legendary rock band, The Doors. In the swinging ’60s, The Doors were at the height of their counterculture fame, attracting throngs of adoring fans wherever they went. Ford, a carpenter at the time, seized the opportunity to join the band on tour when his friend Paul Ferrara invited him to work as a second unit cameraman on a concert film about The Doors’ life on the road.
Ford, eager to make a mark in the industry, quickly learned the ropes of operating a camera and found himself filming the band at the Northern California Folk-Rock Festival. Despite his self-professed amateur camerawork, much of Ford’s footage made it into the final film, demonstrating his natural talent and quick adaptability. Reflecting on his time with The Doors, Ford reminisces about the whirlwind tour, describing it as an eye-opening experience that nearly drove him to contemplation of joining a Jesuit monastery. The debauchery and excesses he witnessed on tour were overwhelming, forcing Ford to concede that he couldn’t keep up with the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle of the band.
As Ford candidly recounts his brief but unforgettable stint working with The Doors, his humility and humor shine through. The vintage footage capturing his interactions with the band members adds a touch of nostalgia to the story, reminding us of a bygone era in Hollywood. Ford’s time as a roadie for The Doors may have been short-lived, but it left an indelible mark on his career, shaping him into the respected actor and industry veteran he is today.
In conclusion, Harrison Ford’s foray into the world of rock ‘n’ roll as a roadie for The Doors sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of his illustrious career. While he may be best known for his iconic on-screen roles, Ford’s behind-the-scenes experiences with The Doors offer a glimpse into the early days of his journey to stardom. This fascinating anecdote adds another layer to Ford’s rich tapestry of experiences and cements his status as a legendary figure in both the film and music industries.