Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist: Will Ferrell Talks Latest Comedy and His Favorite SNL Sketches
Release Date: February 9, 2025
In this engaging episode of NBC's "Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist," host Willie Geist delves deep into the world of comedy with none other than Will Ferrell, celebrated as "the funniest man on the planet." The conversation spans Ferrell's illustrious career, his recent projects, memorable moments on "Saturday Night Live" (SNL), and his passion for performing both on and off the screen.
1. Introduction and Career Highlights
Timestamp: [01:06] - [04:07]
Willie Geist kickstarts the conversation by expressing his excitement about having Will Ferrell as a guest, highlighting their long-standing professional relationship and Ferrell's pivotal role in launching his career through SNL.
Willie Geist ([01:06] - [04:07]): "I will not waste your time or insult your taste in high comedy with a long winding introduction because you know this man also am battling a sinus infection and nobody wants to hear this voice for very long."
Ferrell reflects on his journey from Irvine, California, to becoming a comedy star, emphasizing his time with The Groundlings—a renowned improv group in Los Angeles—and his subsequent hiring by Lorne Michaels in 1995.
2. Recent Projects: "Meeting the Fockers" and "Wedding Crashers"
Timestamp: [04:07] - [09:35]
Ferrell discusses his latest film endeavors, describing them as a return to the beloved dynamic seen in "Meet the Fockers" and "Wedding Crashers."
Will Ferrell ([04:23] - [05:28]): "Nick Stoller, who wrote and directed the movie, who's done so many great comedies, he and I have been friends for a long time and... he said, hey, I want to give you a call. I've got this idea for a movie. And I'm like, great."
The collaboration with Reese Witherspoon is a focal point, with Ferrell praising her comedic prowess and their on-screen chemistry.
Will Ferrell ([05:38] - [06:31]): "She's so good. We play really well off each other. And we just... share the same sensibility in that the funniest things are executed by committing to the character."
He underscores the importance of wholehearted character commitment, regardless of the silliness of the premise.
3. Documentary on Harper Steele’s Transition
Timestamp: [09:37] - [17:29]
The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as Ferrell talks about Harper Steele, an SNL writer and long-time colleague who sent him an email about transitioning to a woman during the COVID pandemic. Ferrell's response led to a road trip documentary aimed at supporting and advocating for Harper.
Will Ferrell ([10:06] - [12:24]): "That started. I started thinking about the fact that one of the things that Harper loves doing and really defines her are these cross country road trips..."
The documentary not only chronicles their journey but also serves as a platform to address broader LGBTQ+ issues, highlighting moments of unexpected kindness and human connection.
4. Experiences and Insights from SNL
Timestamp: [27:48] - [33:07]
Ferrell shares anecdotes from his time auditioning for SNL, including the infamous briefcase story that eventually led to his hiring.
Will Ferrell ([27:35] - [33:07]): "I grabbed a big pile of fake money. I'm like, I've been trying for two months now to give him this counterfeit money. Would you just give him... It's probably $2,000."
He recounts performing absurd characters like the Old Prospector and Jimmy Drew, emphasizing the comedic brilliance of fully embracing the characters without winking at the audience.
Will Ferrell ([34:00] - [35:07]): "All the way. You don't wink at the camera ever, ever, even if you're going off a cliff."
5. Decision to Leave SNL and Transition to Film
Timestamp: [35:07] - [38:37]
Ferrell reflects on his tough decision to depart from SNL after seven seasons to pursue film opportunities. This leap of faith led to iconic films like "Old School," "Elf," and "Anchorman," despite initial rejections and uncertainties.
Will Ferrell ([35:38] - [38:37]): "If I'd stayed an eighth season, a ninth, a tenth, I think it just would have been so comfortable that I probably wouldn't have even left, in a way. So, I just decided to go for it."
He acknowledges that while leaving a beloved show was daunting, it was the right move that allowed his film career to flourish, making "Elf" a perennial Christmas favorite.
6. Memorable SNL Sketches and Characters
Timestamp: [33:07] - [47:12]
The duo reminisces about favorite SNL sketches, debating which ones deserve more recognition. Ferrell highlights characters like the Old Prospector and Jimmy Drew, attributing their success to mutual challenge and creativity.
Will Ferrell ([34:43] - [35:21]): "Jimmy Drew, Right. Yeah. There was a lot of pinching underneath the bubbling surface of the water..."
He also fondly recalls the process of creating these characters, often leading to moments of genuine laughter among the cast.
Will Ferrell ([34:48] - [35:05]): "It's really fun. It's really great. And to watch the dominoes fall of your cast mates. Just losing it, I think."
7. Iconic Movie Roles and Public Performances
Timestamp: [40:24] - [47:12]
Ferrell discusses the enduring popularity of his film characters, attributing their charm to his relatable persona and the authentic enjoyment he injects into his performances.
Will Ferrell ([40:45] - [42:07]): "I'm the guy who lives next door that you don't think I'm going to say the things that I say and that that is the rug pull that has worked for me."
They exchange favorite quotes from his movies, with Ferrell laughing about fans misattributing lines outside their original context.
Will Ferrell ([42:09] - [43:51]): "I do. I do now, and I need to be paid. I'm gonna file suit."
The conversation also touches on Ferrell's love for spontaneous public performances, likening his antics to Andy Kaufman's avant-garde style.
Will Ferrell ([45:02] - [46:09]): "It's kind of my Andy Kaufman side. And that I love the questioning of it as much as any sort of adulation I may get."
8. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
Timestamp: [47:07] - [47:12]
As the interview wraps up, Will Ferrell expresses gratitude for the opportunity to discuss his journey and the joy he derives from bringing laughter to audiences worldwide.
Will Ferrell ([47:07] - [47:12]): "Thank you. I loved it."
Willie Geist concludes by thanking Ferrell and encouraging listeners to stream the full conversation on Amazon Prime, inviting them to follow for more insightful interviews.
This comprehensive dialogue offers fans and newcomers alike a heartfelt glimpse into Will Ferrell's comedic genius, his commitment to his craft, and his enduring friendship with Willie Geist. From the hallowed halls of SNL to the expansive landscapes of Hollywood, Ferrell's story is one of passion, perseverance, and unparalleled humor.