Elstree Calling

One of the dressing rooms at Elstree Studios. Photo: © Elstree Studios Ltd.

Peter Worby Interview:

Peter Worby was Harrison Ford's double on the Indiana Jones film series which were made at Elstree Studios. Although uncredited, the photo on the left proves that Peter worked on the films! He also still has various souvenirs of his time on the films, including call sheets etc. So, as I am sure you can imagine, I was delighted when Peter took the trouble, after visiting this website, to contact me!

As well as emailing me answers to various questions I then sent to him, I was very pleased to be able to put Peter in touch with Paul Harrison, the then owner of Elstree Props, a company which stores and preserves old film and television costumes, props and documents. The collection included an original costume from the Indiana Jones film series, and Peter was very keen to visit to see this again for himself! And, thanks to Paul of Elstree Props, this was made possible!

Below you can read memories of Peter's time of working on the Indiana Jones film series, together with photos of his time at the studios both past and present. Please note: this interview was conducted before the new Indiana Jones film was made. Sadly, Peter did not get to work as Harrison's double on the new film.

Paul: What was it like to work with Harrison Ford?

Peter: Harrison was a very nice guy to work with. I got to speak to him quite a few times. He isn't like some stars. He was going from stage to stage to do another scene, rather than going into a dressing room.

Paul: What are your memories of working at the studios?

Peter: I enjoyed every minute of my time working at Elstree. I had worked on other films there too and was on films such as 'Plenty' among others, but blink and you'd miss me!

For Indiana Jones I worked mainly in the large stage in an area of the site (which is now occupied by Tescos) for the Temple scene. The scene of Katangas boat was filmed on the next stage down and the rats escaped everywhere!

I also remember in 1988 when I first went into make-up in the Indy costume that they said I could pass for his son! When I first walked into Stage 7, I was greeted by four stunt guys who thought I was the real deal until I told them I was the wrong model! Also I had to keep the hat off during the times I wasn't being used, as they kept getting confused, which was very flattering for me!

Paul: What other memories do you have of working at Elstree on the films?

Peter: I remember that Sean Connery had to do his scenes when the best part of the golf was on - what a conflict! I also remember when Michael Jackson turned up on set!

All in all I had met some really nice people who I hope I learn't something from when watching them work.

Paul: I believe plans are currently underway for a new Indiana Jones sequel film to be made. Although I don't believe it is to be made in this country, do you think you will again be involved as Harrison's double?

Peter: Yes, I hope to get work on the next one doubling for Harrison, or the slim opportunity of auditioning for his son, if such a part is planned! I did do a few acting jobs in my own right on the continent in the 1990s, but had to drop out a few years back due to looking after a very sick relatives etc. But now it's time for me to come back and hopefully gain a few minor roles and hopefully if I get to double for Harrison this time I will get credited for it! This was something that I didn't get last time I was at Elstree in 1990! So seventeen years later I hope it's my time now!

Paul: In February 2007 you made a return visit to the studios with your wife Lisa. What memories do you have of that exciting day?

Peter: When I walked down to Stage 7 in the Indy costume I caused quite a stir! I do hope I get the opportunity to repeat my doubling role again this year!

Please click the following link to buy the Indiana Jones Films on DVD.

Please do not reproduce any part of this interview without the first contacting Paul Burton to request permission.

An unofficial website dedicated to Elstree Studios