The 83-year-old actor is one of the most recognizable names in film history. But in a recent Variety interview, Ford shared how, early in his career, he was told – flat-out – that he didn’t have what it takes to make it in Hollywood.

While under a contract with Columbia Pictures in 1966, Ford reflected on his early struggles during a Wednesday interview with Variety. The role in question? A small part in the 1966 film “Dead Heat on a Merry-Go-Round,” one that earned him just $150 per week.