Lucasfilm is not shying away from admitting that “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” marks the final chapter for Harrison Ford as the titular character. Still, with an industry that thrives on franchises, it wouldn’t be surprising if Lucasfilm sought to keep the Indiana Jones series alive by introducing a new lead. Could that lead be the character played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge?
In an interview with Vanity Fair, both Ford and Waller-Bridge entertained the notion of the Indiana Jones franchise forging ahead without its eponymous hero. Can anyone fill Harrison Ford’s shoes as the face of the Indiana Jones series? In the film, Waller-Bridge portrays Helena, Indiana Jones’ goddaughter, a competent hero – though flawed in ways similar to the revered archaeologist. The question remains: could she potentially head up the franchise in the future?
Waller-Bridge believes that while there’s no replacing Indiana Jones, there may be space for a character like hers. “I do think there’s room for a slightly clumsier, bruised, limping female action star, maybe, in the future,” she shared.
Ford has previously stated that his character should never be replaced. But he also sees a potential future in which another character could take the helm – and Waller-Bridge could be just the person for it. Praising her talents, Ford said, “She’s certainly capable of being a movie star. It’s a question of whether or not she wants to endure that responsibility.”
However, crowning Helena as the successor to the franchise might be premature at this point. The success of a new Indiana Jones movie, after a significant hiatus, remains to be seen. If the film is a hit, there’s no doubt Lucasfilm would want to keep the franchise churning. Conversely, should it tank, then maybe it’s time to finally bid Indiana Jones farewell.
Look forward to catching “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” in theaters starting June 30th. For a sneak peek, be sure to check out the official trailer.
