What does Harrison Ford really think about Jacob Dutton’s violent ways and the dark truth behind his leadership style?

When it comes to television, looks can be deceiving. In Taylor Sheridan’s 1923, Jacob Dutton looks like the perfect Western hero with his rugged appearance and fearless personality, played by the iconic Harrison Ford. He looks like the kind of character who commands respect and fights for his family.

But even Ford tells the audience that there’s nothing in the character that needs to be idolized by fans. In an interview, the legendary actor delved deeper into his character and detailed why Jacob is not a saint leading the way.

Does Jacob Dutton deserve the praise he’s getting? Harrison Ford weighs in

Harrison Ford may have played several fearless and adventurous roles throughout his career. But when it comes to Jacob Dutton in 1923, he’s setting the record straight: this man is no hero. At a recent event in Los Angeles for the Yellowstone prequel series via The Hollywood Reporter, the actor spoke candidly about his role as well as the show.

Harrison Ford in a still from 1923 | Credits: Paramount

In 1923, he plays Jacob Dutton, who’s an aging rancher navigating the harsh realities of the early 20th century. While many fans see Jacob as a noble figure trying to protect his family and land, in the conversation, Ford made it clear that things aren’t so black and white.

There’s a very high level of complexity to the role, which in turn was exactly what drew Ford to the character. He added:
I thought it was an opportunity to really invest in a very complicated characterization, because this is not a hero. This is a complicated man who does some bad shit and then goes on with his life. And I think that’s a very interesting kind of character to play, and not one that frequently comes my way.
From the very initial episode, where Jacob hangs four men without a trial, it’s clear that he doesn’t follow a simple moral code. His actions are always very brutal, and his leadership comes with fear and force. Yet, for some fans, his character is possibly the best out of the lot.

While the show follows several dark themes, Ford is glad that it has depth and realism rather than presenting just another Cowboys and Indians tale. While there has been a huge buzz that the second season of the show would be the last, the actor hasn’t ruled out a return in some form.

Now, with 1944 rumored to be the next chapter in the Yellowstone saga, fans are definitely anticipating Harrison Ford’s involvement.

Could Harrison Ford return as Jacob Dutton in 1944?

When it comes to expanding the Yellowstone universe, it looks like Taylor Sheridan is in no mood to stop. While fans definitely love this, now even Harrison Ford seems to be on board with another Yellowstone project.

Harrison Ford and Helen Miren in a still from 1923 | Credits: Paramount

Yes, during the same interview via The Hollywood Reporter, the actor was asked if he’d ever reprise his role as Jacob Dutton, especially with 1944 reportedly in the works. To this, he replied, “I’m still alive” and added, “If (Taylor Sheridan) asks nice,” making it clear that while nothing is set in stone, the door isn’t closed.

Though it was a lighthearted moment, it also revealed that the iconic actor has no objections to coming back as long as the opportunity is right. Ford’s portrayal of Jacob Dutton has been one of the most complex characters in the Yellowstone prequel series.

And given the timeline of 1944, it’s unclear how the older Dutton would fit into the narrative. Still, the actor seems to be open to being part of whatever comes next.

You can now stream 1923 on Paramount+ (US).