Ke Huy Quan recently recounted a hilarious incident where director Steven Spielberg pulled a prank on Harrison Ford during a visit to the set of The Goonies. Quan, who portrayed Data in the 1985 film, shared this amusing story while answering fans’ questions for The Guardian.
During the filming of The Goonies, several notable celebrities made appearances, including Cyndi Lauper, Michael Jackson, and Clint Eastwood. However, it was Harrison Ford’s unexpected visit that left Quan starstruck. “I was star-struck when Harrison Ford came to visit because I’d made Indy [Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom],” Quan said, reflecting on the significance of Ford’s presence.
In a twist that showcased Spielberg’s playful personality, the director decided to use Ford’s visit as an opportunity for a light-hearted prank. It was revealed that there was a biography about Ford that the actor was known to dislike. In a clever move, Spielberg purchased around 300 copies of this book, strategically placing them around the set. Quan described how, upon arriving, Ford was met with the sight of the entire crew—security guards, gaffers, and even camera operators—all engrossed in reading the biography. This unexpected setup caused quite a moment of laughter for those present.
The cast of The Goonies, including stars such as Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen, and Corey Feldman, were entertained by Ford’s visit and Spielberg’s antics. Equally memorable for Quan was another celebrity encounter with none other than Michael Jackson. “I remember when we were told that Michael Jackson was going to visit. The cast and crew were so excited. We didn’t know what time he was arriving, so we were constantly looking over our shoulders,” he recalled. “When he walked on to the set, everybody just stopped what they were doing – even the guy making the coffee.”
Reflecting on Jackson’s modest demeanor, Quan noted, “He was very shy. I think we made him nervous because there were so many people,” adding, “Then we took those photos that you see on the internet. We were so giddy that he was there.” The King of Pop even gifted the cast tickets to one of his performances in Los Angeles and special jackets, some of which remain cherished possessions for Quan and his co-stars. “Somehow I lost mine, which I’m very mad at myself for,” he lamented.
Alongside these delightful anecdotes, Quan also discussed his evolution in the film industry and the changes in Asian representation in Hollywood. He mentioned the stark contrast from his early career experiences. “When I started my career, it was a very different time. My latest movie, Love Hurts, is a big-budget movie with an Asian lead. That alone is a testament to how much everything has changed and to Hollywood’s willingness to tell diverse stories,” he explained. “I’m very optimistic,” he concluded, reflecting a positive outlook on the future of representation in film.
As the industry continues to evolve, Quan’s sentiments encapsulate a broader movement toward inclusivity. With projects like Love Hurts, which tells the story of a former hitman turned realtor, and his experiences in auditions that welcomed diverse casting, Quan’s journey is proof that the narrative landscape in Hollywood is indeed changing for the better. Love Hurts is now showing in theaters, showcasing this progress in storytelling.
