Steven Meigs Ford, the youngest son of former U.S. President Gerald R. Ford and First Lady Betty Ford, is currently 69 years old as of December 10, 2025. Born on May 19, 1956, his life trajectory is a fascinating blend of political heritage, a successful acting career in Hollywood, and a powerful role as a national advocate for mental health and addiction recovery. While the name "Steve Ford" may bring up a few different public figures, the former First Son has carved out a unique and enduring legacy that extends far beyond his time living in the White House, with his work continuing to make headlines in 2024 and 2025.
The latest updates on Steven Ford show that he remains a highly sought-after keynote speaker and serves as a pivotal figure in preserving his family's history and advocacy work, particularly through the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation. His candid discussions about his own struggles with alcohol and his mother's pioneering work at the Betty Ford Center provide a unique perspective that resonates with audiences across the country, keeping his story fresh and relevant today.
Steven Meigs Ford: A Complete Biographical Profile
Steven Meigs Ford, often simply called Steve Ford, has led a multi-faceted life that began in the political spotlight and transitioned into the entertainment industry and, ultimately, into philanthropic leadership. He is the third and youngest son of the 38th U.S. President and his influential wife.
- Full Name: Steven Meigs Ford
- Date of Birth: May 19, 1956
- Current Age (as of Dec 10, 2025): 69 years old
- Birthplace: East Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S.
- Parents: Gerald R. Ford (Father, 38th U.S. President) and Betty Ford (Mother, Former First Lady)
- Siblings: Michael Ford, John (Jack) Ford, and Susan Ford
- Alma Mater: Utah State University, California State Polytechnic University (attended)
- Primary Professions: Actor, Keynote Speaker, Philanthropic Leader
- Notable Acting Roles: Andy Richards on *The Young and the Restless*, Four Star General in *Transformers*, Cribbs in *Black Hawk Down*
- Current Roles (2025): Trustee and Chairman of the *Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation*
From the White House to Hollywood: Steven Ford’s Unexpected Career Path
Steven Ford’s life took a dramatic turn away from the traditional political path expected of a presidential child. After his father's term ended, Ford moved to California and pursued a career in acting, a decision that surprised many but allowed him to forge his own identity outside of the political shadow. His career spanned over 25 years, appearing in over 800 hours of film and television productions.
The Soap Opera Star: Andy Richards on *The Young and the Restless*
Ford’s most recognized television role was on the popular daytime soap opera *The Young and the Restless*. From 1981 to 1987, he played the character Andy Richards, a role that brought him significant recognition and proved his ability to succeed in the demanding world of Hollywood. This long-running role established him as a legitimate actor, not just "the President's son."
Major Film Appearances and Collaborations
Beyond daytime television, Ford secured roles in several major motion pictures, often portraying military or authoritative figures, a nod to his presidential heritage. His filmography includes appearances in blockbusters and cult classics:
- *Escape from New York* (1981)
- *Armageddon* (1998)
- *The Rage: Carrie 2* (1999)
- *Black Hawk Down* (2001), where he played the character Cribbs
- *Transformers* (2007), where he played a Four Star General
These roles, particularly his part in the critically acclaimed *Black Hawk Down*, demonstrated his versatility and commitment to his craft, cementing his status as a working actor in the industry.
Advocacy and The Ford Legacy: Steven’s Current Focus in 2025
In recent years, Steven Ford has transitioned his public life toward honoring his family's legacy, focusing heavily on mental health and addiction recovery. This shift has made him a powerful and relevant voice in contemporary American discourse, with his latest public appearances emphasizing his role as an advocate.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Chairman
As of 2025, Steven Ford serves as a Trustee and Chairman of the *Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation*. In this capacity, he plays a crucial role in preserving the history and principles of his father's presidency. His work involves overseeing the foundation’s educational programs, museum operations, and archives, ensuring that President Ford's legacy of integrity and bipartisanship continues to influence new generations.
His involvement is not just ceremonial; it is a full-time commitment. For example, in September 2024, he was a featured speaker at the *Dillon Lecture Series* in Reno County, Kansas, sharing his unique perspective on growing up in the White House and his life's journey. This demonstrates his continued active presence on the national speaking circuit in the most recent years.
Championing the Betty Ford Center’s Mission
Perhaps Steven’s most personal and impactful advocacy work is his commitment to the mission of the *Betty Ford Center*, co-founded by his mother, First Lady Betty Ford, in 1982. Both Steven and his mother faced their own struggles with substance abuse, giving him a deeply personal connection to the center's work.
Steven is a vocal proponent for breaking the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health. His keynote speeches, often titled "Beyond the Limelight: Overcoming the Struggle," candidly address his own journey to recovery, including his time receiving treatment at the center. This openness has positioned him as a leading celebrity mental health speaker, using his platform to promote hope and recovery nationwide.
Steven Ford’s Personal Life and LSI Keyword Clarification
While Steven Ford has been private about his personal life compared to his public career, his focus remains on his speaking and foundation work. He is known to have been married, though he does not have children of his own. However, he is a loving uncle to his siblings' children.
Addressing the Other "Steve Ford"
A common point of confusion in search results is the existence of another prominent public figure with a similar name: Steve Ford, the contractor and designer from the popular HGTV show *Restored by the Fords*. This Steve Ford is an entirely different person, known for his renovation work in Pittsburgh alongside his sister, Leanne Ford. The HGTV star is married to Andrea Cargill, and they welcomed their first son, Jack Michael Ford, in recent years.
For those searching for the age and biography of the former First Son, Steven Meigs Ford, it is important to distinguish him from the HGTV personality. Steven Meigs Ford's legacy is rooted in his time in the White House, his acting career, and his significant contributions to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation and the cause of addiction recovery.
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