Harrison Ford in tears as he's told 'you mean the world to us' during standing ovation

Harrison Ford was left in tears as he was told he "means the world" to fans of the Indiana Jones film franchise.

The 80-year-old actor has played the title character for more than four decades, but he announced his decision to step away from the franchise last month.

The upcoming instalment of Indiana Jones will be the final one for Harrison and the film has been receiving plenty of praise ahead of its release in cinemas.

The Hollywood star appeared to momentarily choke up as he was thanked for his contributions to the long-running film series.

"Can I just say, on behalf of all the fans, thank you. It's been such an adventure, we love you so much.

Harrison Ford teared up as he was praised for his work (BBC Radio 1/Youtube)

"I don't want to make you blush or anything, but you mean the world to us. Thank you, that's all I have to say," BBC Radio One journalist Ali Plumb told Harrison.

The actor was overwhelmed by the praise and replied: "I must say to you, thank you, sincerely. It means the world to me."

Harrison was also asked why he thinks Indiana Jones has remained so successful after all these years.

"Because of the talents of the screenwriters and directors and actors that have poured their hearts and souls into it," he said.

The actor has played Indiana Jones for more than 40 years (AP)

Harrison added: "The films are peopled with some of the most amazing actors and characters and the stories are so compelling and they mix adventure and humour and heart."

He also said he admires "the depth and subtly of emotion" within the films before paying tribute to his co-stars, including the late Sean Connery, Karen Allen and John Hurt.

At the Cannes Film Festival, the veteran actor was overcome with emotion as he received a five-minute standing ovation.

Later that evening, Harrison told Variety: "I'm very moved by this. They say when you're about to die, you see your life flash before your eyes, and I just saw my life flash before my eyes.

"A great part of my life, but not all of my life. My life has been enabled by my lovely wife, who has supported my passion and my dreams, and I'm grateful."

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