Could Harrison Ford reprise 'Blade Runner' role?

According to Variety, Alcon Entertainment, which owns the rights to the franchise, started working on a sequel more than three years ago and is now interested in having 71-year-old Ford sign on to reprise his role in the iconic film.

Alcon made the announcement Thursday, but it sounds like it hasn't had any direct talks with Ford. The Los Angeles Times says the statement serves as a public offer for Ford to sign on for the sequel.

The Hollywood Reporter argues there are pros and cons to Alcon's potentially risky decision to publicly call for Ford's return.

"Alcon could be strategizing that an outpouring of enthusiasm for Ford and the classic character will play a positive part in the actor's decision to return. But there is also great risk of losing face if Ford turns it down."

So far, it's unclear whether Ford has any interest in turning back the clock to yet another former role of his. Again, he's already signed on to reprise his role as Han Solo in the new "Star Wars" movie.

According to the Daily Mirror, filming of the long-awaited movie began Friday in Abu Dhabi. Ford's former castmates Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill are also returning.

It's not clear when a "Blade Runner" sequel might go into production or what the storyline would be. So far, the director of the original film has agreed to direct the new installment. Neither Ford nor his representatives have commented.