Henry Thomas Shares Details About “E.T.” Deleted Scene Featuring Harrison Ford and the Actor’s Requirement to Film It

**Harrison Ford’s Unseen Cameo in E.T.: A Tale from Henry Thomas**

In an intriguing revelation, actor Henry Thomas has recounted the details of a cameo made by Harrison Ford in the iconic 1982 film *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*, which ultimately failed to make the final cut. Thomas, who portrayed young Elliot in the film, shared insights during an appearance on The Hollywood Reporter’s *It Happened in Hollywood* podcast.

Thomas, now 54, reminisced about Ford’s involvement in the project, noting that the veteran actor was dating screenwriter Melissa Mathison while filming took place. Their close association with director Steven Spielberg led to Ford’s frequent presence on set. However, Thomas recalled that Ford was initially reluctant to participate, saying, “Harrison was like, ‘No, no, I don’t want to do it.’”

Despite Ford’s reservations, Spielberg managed to persuade him to play a role, which was that of a school principal. However, Ford had strict conditions; he did not wish for his face to be visible in the scene. “He just wanted to talk and have his hands in the movie,” Thomas explained, which added a layer of mystery to the scene.

In the momentous scene, Thomas described his character, Elliot, entering the principal’s office where Ford’s character was seated. “Harrison kind of spins his chair around,” he shared, noting that the audience only witnessed the back of the chair and Ford’s hands. At this point in the narrative, Elliot’s extraterrestrial companion, E.T., had consumed beer at home, resulting in an amusing sequence where Elliot starts levitating while in the presence of the principal.

“The child starts levitating in the chair, and he’s, like, floating up to the ceiling,” Thomas elaborated, detailing how E.T.’s antics unfolded right as Ford’s character turned around, making it a comic moment in which the principal is completely oblivious.

For Thomas, working alongside Ford was particularly thrilling, particularly because he held the actor in high regard due to his famed role as Indiana Jones. He recalled a fitting anecdote from when he first met Spielberg: “I had a bullwhip tied to my waist because, you know, Indiana Jones was my hero at the time.”

The encounter with Spielberg took place on the set of *Poltergeist*, where Thomas excitedly hoped to discuss his admiration for *Raiders of the Lost Ark*. To his disappointment, the director overlooked the bullwhip completely during their initial interaction. This anecdote further illustrates the reverence young Thomas had for both Ford and Spielberg.

Ultimately, Ford’s cameo never made it into the finished film, remaining a hidden part of *E.T.*’s storied legacy. This incident underscores a fascinating aspect of filmmaking, where even high-profile cameos can fall victim to the editing process.

To this day, *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* remains a beloved classic, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. The stories behind the scenes, such as Ford’s intended participation, contribute to the film’s enduring allure and mystery. As fans continue to celebrate the film’s impact, anecdotes like these remind us of the collaborative spirit that often defines the world of cinema.

As the film industry continues to evolve, the behind-the-scenes stories remain an enchanting part of its history, offering insights into the creative processes and relationships that shape the films we cherish. Thomas’ reminiscences offer a nostalgic glimpse into a pivotal moment in cinematic history, blending friendship, reluctance, and a touch of whimsy amidst a legendary collaboration.

In recalling the collaborative efforts among the film’s crew, including Ford’s brief but unforgettable presence, it becomes clear that the magic of *E.T.* transcends generations. With each retelling, the legacy of the film continues to resonate, ensuring it remains a touchstone for film enthusiasts worldwide.