Will Ferrell Regrets an SNL Choice He Wouldn’t Do Today

Will Ferrell Regrets an SNL Choice He Wouldn't Do Today

As a long-time fan of Will Ferrell and his comedic genius, I have to say that I am both excited and moved by the upcoming documentary titled “Will & Harper.” The fact that he is embarking on this journey with his friend and former SNL colleague Harper Steele, exploring their 30-year friendship and embracing her newfound identity, is truly inspiring.


Actor Will Ferrell is set to feature in a documentary titled “Will & Harper” alongside his longtime friend and former “Saturday Night Live” head writer Harper Steele, who publicly identified as a trans woman in 2022. The road trip film finds Ferrell venturing into uncharted territory for him, delving into their 30-year friendship with Steele and accepting her new identity. Notably, during season 23 of “SNL,” Ferrell donned women’s clothing as part of a sketch called “Janet Reno’s Fantasies.” However, in the context of the upcoming documentary “Will & Harper,” Ferrell has expressed regret over this past performance.

In a chat with The New York Times, Will Ferrell reminisced about an old SNL sketch where he dressed in drag, commenting, “Something like that, I wouldn’t opt for today.” Harper Steele, seated beside Ferrell, noted that the sketch might not hold up well over time, but admitted that his regret is disappointing.

This situation is disappointing. I get that the laughter is meant to be a derisive chuckle, implying humor from seeing someone dressed as a woman. But honestly, it’s not funny at all. It’s crucial for us to live in a world where everyone is respected. That being said, when it comes to performers and actors, I appreciate some level of playfulness.

Steele delved deeper into the original interpretation of Ferrell’s outdated Saturday Night Live skit, pondering just how far it’s acceptable to push boundaries when reassessing questionable acts.

“This is an interesting question to me. Do queer people like ‘The Birdcage,’ or do they not? Robin Williams, at least as far as we know, was not a gay man, and yet he spent about half of his comedy career doing a swishy gay guy on camera. Do people think that’s funny, or is it just hurtful? I’ve heard from gay men that it was funny, and I’ve heard from gay men that it was hurtful. I am purple-haired woke, but I wonder if sometimes we take away the joy of playing when we take away some of the range that performers, especially comedy performers, can do.”

Will Ferrell & Harper Steele Documentary Arriving on Netflix

Will Ferrell Regrets an SNL Choice He Wouldn't Do TodayWill Ferrell Regrets an SNL Choice He Wouldn't Do TodayWill Ferrell Regrets an SNL Choice He Wouldn't Do TodayWill Ferrell Regrets an SNL Choice He Wouldn't Do Today

Under the direction of Josh Greenbaum, the film titled “Will & Harper” follows Will Ferrell as he embarks on a cross-country road trip with his old friend and former SNL colleague, Harper Steele. Unbeknownst to Ferrell, as the movie’s trailer unveils, Steele had revealed via email 30 years into their friendship that they had transitioned. This revelation comes as a shock to Ferrell. The documentary chronicles a new phase in their relationship, one that unfolds during their on-screen journey and brings growth and understanding for both Ferrell and Steele. Prepare for an emotional ride for all involved, particularly longtime fans of these two talented artists. The official synopsis goes:

During a significant moment when Will Ferrell learns that his longtime friend, after 30 years, is revealing her identity as a trans woman, the pair embark on a journey across the country. This journey serves as a heartfelt depiction of their friendship evolving, the process of transition, and a unique exploration of America.

In Netflix’s movie “Will & Harper,” we see a significant moment of reflection on the title friendship, as well as a glimpse into the nation where the documentary is set. This latest mainstream production continues to advocate for a positive message about the LGBTQ+ community and self-acceptance, similar to HBO’s reality drag show, “We’re Here.” As we journey through small towns across America in “Will & Harper,” it offers a glimmer of optimism, suggesting that society may not be as far from acceptance as one might think.

Will & Harper
is set to be released on Netflix, on September 27.

Read More

2024-09-11 21:01