When you think of a famous Ford from film or television, you probably recall some of the classic appearances, like in Thelma and Louise and Smokey and the Bandit, as well as some of the more recent appearances, like the Gran Torino’s partnership with Clint Eastwood in Gran Torino, or the Ford Crown Victoria’s multiple appearances in films and tv shows like Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Scandal, and West Wing. You also might have seen Mustangs in the Fast & Furious franchise, as well as in Ford v Ferrari. All of these flashy, memorable cars are still popular today. But what about Ford’s equivalent of the working horse?
Yes, we’re talking about the range of Ford SUVs, from the Explorer to the Bronco to the Escape. Did you know that Ford SUVs have also graced the silver screen and the big screen, and one model has even taken over Hollywood as part of the stars’ daily lives? There’s more than one Ford SUV dealer with inventory flying off the shelves, and perhaps a look at the films and stars who grace our screens alongside Ford SUVs will give us some clues as to why the Ford has become so popular among the rich and famous and us, their audience.
Rampage
Though it was only a cameo, the bit part in Rampage was enough to escalate interest in the reintroduction of the Ford Bronco, the brand’s most beloved SUV. Fans of both Ford and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will be happy to know that the Bronco was included only after “The Rock” specifically requested it. Being a big Ford fan himself, when he saw that the script called for a Jeep, he went to bat for the Bronco and convinced the higher-ups to trade out the model.
The Bronco used in Rampage was a concept model from an earlier period in its history, but three years later, there were Broncos showing up at dealerships again, and they have remained popular, whether they’re appearing in film, television, or your own driveway. Broncos are versatile, dependable, and roomy enough for the whole crew to take a ride in, whether you’re going to a shoot or to the store.
While it may seem like a cameo isn’t enough time to get noticed, there are plenty of actors who made cameos that remain quite memorable, like Richard Simmons showing up in Arrested Development, David Bowie in Zoolander, and Glenn Close appearing in Hook. People remember these cameos because they enjoy the surprise of seeing a favorite actor appear in an unexpected place, and this is also true for the Ford Bronco, with fans sometimes waiting several years before they’re able to get their hands on one.
Broncos are versatile, dependable, and roomy enough for the whole crew to take a ride in. You’ll be able to haul and tow all the equipment or camping gear for truly memorable moments. If you’re looking for something with star power that won’t behave like one, take a look at the Ford favorite, the Bronco.
Celebrities Who Drive Ford SUVs
When Ford Broncos aren’t being filmed, there are plenty of Hollywood stars who drive them, from the aforementioned Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to the guy that connects all of Hollywood in six degrees or less––Kevin Bacon––to Colin Farrell and Lady Gaga. With so many big stars in the film and television world driving a Ford, it’s easy to see why, from a marketing standpoint, this is such a good thing for Ford. Free press, popularity, and the North American desire to stay relevant while also a bit retro means there are plenty of people now looking for a Ford to drive, used or new.
Still, other celebrities prefer a different size or shape to the Bronco and tend to prefer the Edge, Escape, or Expedition, depending on family size and the necessity of cargo space. Celebrities that have been spotted in one of these popular Ford SUVs include Alyssa Milano, Ben Affleck, Gabriel Iglesias, and others, all drawn to the spaciousness, luxury, and smooth powertrain that makes these SUVs so fun to drive. Other celebrities that both drive Fords and work with Ford to promote the brand include, once again, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and other well-known stars like Bryan Cranston, Sam Elliott, SNL alum Rob Riggle, and James Franco, some of whom appeared in commercials during various Super Bowls over the years.
Jurassic Park
Of course, the most famous Ford SUV is none other than the Ford Explorer, made famous by its inclusion in a theme park full of dinosaurs. Yes, the vehicles driven by park associates and scientists escaping said dinosaurs are Ford Explorers, and some drivers loved the look of them so much that even today, you can see an Explorer with Jurassic Park paint jobs and logos driving down the road. When a vehicle makes that much of an impact on culture, you can bet it will stick around for a long time. Three decades later, the Explorer is still popular, especially with those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s and got to experience Jurassic Park on the big screen.
The midsize SUV was perfect for adapting into a park rover, allowing audiences to see its rougher side as it careened through mud, evaded dinosaurs, and withstood the jaws of the mighty Tyrannosaurus Rex. Even though these situations weren’t real, the Explorer was and continues to be an excellent option for those looking for an SUV with the ability to endure. Whether you’re going with the available paint colors from Ford or you have a special paint job done by a garage, you’ll be proud to add your name to the list of individuals who converted to the SUV lifestyle all because of a film franchise revolving around dinosaurs.
Be a Star – Drive a Ford SUV
Plenty of musicians, actors, sports stars, and others love to drive Ford SUVs. We’ve seen commercials where stars talk about how much they enjoy the brand and its variety. While it isn’t necessary to copy these people we admire to ‘fit in,’ it is good to take a look at what they like, think about why, and then see if that’s something you’re also interested in having. If you like what they have, and you’re looking for a new-to-you vehicle, why not take a peek and see what all the fuss is about?
When you experience a Ford SUV for the first time, you’ll understand. Whether you’re leaning toward an Explorer, Bronco, or Edge, you’ll love the thoughtful touches inside that make for a pleasant driving experience, and you’ll enjoy the exterior design. There’s a reason people with big budgets are opting to go with a Ford model over the competition.
Want to be like a star? Feel the need to unleash your inner celebrity? Then it’s time you went and looked at some of these SUVs. Whether you end up with one of the newer Broncos or find an older Expedition to act as your daily commuter, off-road buddy, or road trip companion, you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained and safe. That’s Ford life for you. Welcome to the life of a celebrity.
