Composer John Williams Considering Retirement After ‘Indiana Jones 5’

John Williams, one of the most iconic and well-known film composers of all time, is considering retirement after working on the score for the upcoming Indiana Jones 5.

After more than 6 decades, more than 75 film scores, and 5 Oscars, Williams reveals to the AP that while working on Indiana Jones 5, he learned that the film would be star Harrison Ford’s last film.

“At the moment I’m working on ‘Indiana Jones 5,’ which Harrison Ford – who’s quite a bit younger than I am – I think has announced will be his last film,” Williams, 90, said. “So, I thought: If Harrison can do it, then perhaps I can, also.”

Williams also reveals that creating a film score takes six months. And at this point in his life, “is a long commitment to me,” he says.

But music fans shouldn’t worry. While he contemplating bring his work for film to a close, he does plan to continue writing music, specifically for the concert hall. 

“I don’t want to be seen as categorically eliminating any activity,” Williams continues laughing. “I can’t play tennis, but I like to be able to believe that maybe one day I will.”

The Future of Indiana Jones Franchise and Indiana Jones 5

There’s been no confirmation made yet about what the future of the Indiana Jones franchise will be. But, Lucasfilm head, Kathleen Kennedy, did recently indicate it could be their final movie. And that they wouldn’t make another without Harrison Ford.

“There should be moments along the way when you learn things. [Solo] may have certainly been a learning moment.” Kennedy states to Vanity Fair in a May 2022 interview. “Some people have talked about how, well, maybe Solo should have been a TV show. But even doing Solo as a TV show without Harrison Ford as Han Solo … It’s the same thinking. Maybe I should have recognized this before.” We would never make Indiana Jones without Harrison Ford.”

“Having just finished the fifth movie, I can tell you, there wasn’t a day I wasn’t on set where I wasn’t like, ‘Yes — this is Indiana Jones.'” Kennedy continues.

While Harrison Ford, who turns 80 on July 13, 2022, hasn’t confirmed Williams’ statement yet, he doesn’t have any additional projects announced. However, he does have two very high profile TV projects coming up, including Yellowstone spin-off, 1932.

What Is the Indiana Jones 5 Release Date?

Indiana Jones 5 is scheduled for release on June 30, 2023. The news was announced by Harrison Form himself at the Star Wars Celebration back in May. We know that the film is rumored to be set in the 1960s and involves the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. 

While we hope John Williams reconsiders retirement, we also realize that it’s got to be hard still working at 90! Whatever the legendary composer decides, we’re grateful for all the amazing music he’s given us over the years. 

What is your favorite John Williams’ score? Are you excited for Indiana Jones 5? Sound off in our comment section below!