Harrison Ford and 'E.T.' writer Melissa Mathison made Hollywood history with $85M divorce that he was still paying out until she died
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Harrison Ford is eagerly preparing for the release of his upcoming film 'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,' scheduled to hit theaters on June 30, 2023. The iconic franchise originally debuted in 1981 with 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' which achieved considerable box office success, earning nearly $4 million.
However, in a candid revelation, Ford revealed that things may have been different for his family if he was not a famous actor. "I can tell you this: If I’d been less successful, I’d probably be a better parent," as per Fox News. As he gears up for the release of his new movie, we delve into one particular relationship in his life that cost him a lot of money.
Harrison Ford and his second wife Melissa Mathison had been together for over two decades, before getting divorced in 2004. Their divorce settlement stands as one of the most expensive in the history of Hollywood.
How did Harrison Ford and Melissa Mathison meet?
Their paths crossed on the set of 'Apocalypse Now' in 1976, where Mathison was employed as a production assistant, coinciding with Ford's pivotal moment of landing one of his most significant roles. This meeting marked the beginning of their connection and set the stage for their subsequent relationship. During this period, Ford was still married to his first wife and high school sweetheart, Mary Marquardt. However, they divorced in 1979, shortly after his iconic portrayal of Han Solo in the first original 'Star Wars' film.
Harrison Ford and Melissa Mathison got married in 1983
Ford and Mathison began dating in 1982, and their relationship steadily progressed. The couple took their commitment further by marrying the following year. By this time, Ford had already made a name for himself with his role in 'Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark' and had successfully completed the 'Star Wars' trilogy, solidifying his status as a rising star in the industry.
Simultaneously, Mathison had achieved considerable fame as the screenwriter of the 1982 blockbuster 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial', which went on to become one of the highest-grossing films in history. Her remarkable script for 'E.T.' garnered her first and only Oscar nomination, though she ultimately lost to John Briley's screenplay for 'Gandhi'.
Harrison Ford and Melissa Mathison's divorce amounted to $85M
Initially, Ford and Mathison decided to separate, hoping that time apart would rekindle their relationship. They did reunite for a brief period, giving their reconciliation a chance. However, despite their efforts, the couple eventually made the decision to legally separate, and their separation was eventually followed by the announcement of their divorce. The divorce settlement proved to be a substantial financial arrangement, with Mathison receiving a significant sum. Additionally, she negotiated to retain a portion of Ford's future earnings, including proceeds from projects such as the lucrative Indiana Jones franchise.
Mathison officially filed for divorce from Harrison Ford in 2001. The absence of a prenuptial agreement meant that the process of reaching a settlement took approximately three years, involving a lengthy legal battle. The divorce was finalized in 2004 and amounted to $85 million, according to Forbes.
Harrison Ford began dating Calista Flockhart before his divorce
Ford and Calista Flockhart's love story began when they met at the Golden Globe Awards in early 2002. Ford was still married to Mathison during that time, although they had filed for legal separation in 2001. Ford and Flockhart made one of their earliest public appearances as a couple at the 59th Venice Film Festival in 2002. The couple got married on June 15, 2010, and have been together ever since.
