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John Williams, 91-Year-Old Legendary Film Composer, Won’t Retire Yet Saying He Likes to ‘Keep an Open Mind’

Star Wars Celebration Events 2022
(Photo : Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney)
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - MAY 26: Harrison Ford of the upcoming fifth installment of the “Indiana Jones” franchise honors composer John Williams on his 90th birthday at Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California on May 26, 2022.

Whether you're a movie buff or just a casual enjoyer, you probably have heard of John Williams' legendary film scores. From the horrifying sharp strings of the 1975 "Jaws" soundtrack to the ever-iconic orchestral backdrop of the 1977 "Star Wars" movie, the American composer's work is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

This is why the possibility of his retirement came as a shock to many, especially when rumors surrounding it floated around back in July 2022. 

However, in a recent interview with London's The Times, the 91-year-old has laid rest to these claims, saying, "If a film came along that I was greatly interested in, with a schedule that I could cope with, then I wouldn't want to rule anything out."

The initial gossip revolving around the veteran film composer's retirement first came into orbit when he alluded to his score in the 2023 film "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," the fifth film in the famed franchise, to potentially be his last.

This statement followed Harrison Ford's announcement that the film would be the actor's last one. Williams told the Associated Press that he believed: "If Harrison can do it, then perhaps I can, also."

That said, it seems we have yet to hear the last of Williams' symphonious masterpieces as he told the London publication: "Everything is possible. All is before us. Only our limitations are holding us back."

"Or, to put it more simply: I like to keep an open mind," he added.

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Most Famous John Williams Scores

Throughout his distinguished career, Williams has been on the receiving end of more than 50 Oscar nominations.

In total, the composer bagged five prestigious awards from the Academy for his monumental work in the films "Fiddler on the Roof" (1971), "Jaws," "Star Wars," "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" (1982), and "Schindler's List" (1993). 

The only creative who has earned more Academy Nominations than Williams is the late Walt Disney, which is a testament to the maestro's bid as a living legend in the industry. 

Among his oeuvre comprising iconic earworms, none captures the essence and identity of the franchise like his score for the 1981 "Indiana Jones" film "Raiders of the Lost Ark." 

Ford recalled the score's effect on people and its association with his portrayal of the titular character in an interview with Classic FM, saying, "This damn music follows me everywhere I go. And thank you!"

"It follows me everywhere ... but I love it. And I'm happy to march to that tune," the actor expressed.

Read More: Classical Music Concert Based on Hit Anime 'Your Lie in April' to be Held in 2024 at Tokyo 

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