Will Ferrell posing on the red carpet. (Maddy Fangio / Daily Nexus)
From “Elf” to “Step Brothers,” actor, comedian, writer and producer Will Ferrell is widely regarded as one of the most prolific comedic figures in Hollywood, known for his zany characters and quick humor.
Ferrell most recently served as a producer for the 2024 documentary “Will & Harper,” which he also starred in. The film follows Ferrell’s close friendship with former “Saturday Night Live” writer Harper Steele, who came out as a trans woman three years ago. The pair embark on a 17-day road trip together as they enter a new phase of their friendship.
“Will & Harper” delves into more serious conversations surrounding acceptance, community and what it means to be a trans woman in America, topics unlike anything previously in Ferrell’s comedic filmography. “I’ve had a long enough career that I’m very secure in exploring the subject matter with my friend,” Ferrell told the New York Times.
Maddy Fangio / Daily Nexus
The actor’s acclaimed career, along with recent documentary success, led to him being honored with the 17th annual Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) on Wednesday, Dec. 11. According to the SBIFF website, the Kirk Douglas Award is given to a “lifelong contributor to cinema through their work in front of the camera, behind, or both.”
Prior to the event, Ferrell was joined on the red carpet by wife Viveca Paulin, along with presenters and fellow actors Kristen Wiig and Octavia Spencer.
Ferrell posing with presenters Kristen Wiig and Octavia Spencer. (Maddy Fangio / Daily Nexus)
While on the carpet, Ferrell spoke to the Daily Nexus about his past work and what character, if any, he would revisit.
“I love[d] doing Ron Burgundy,” Ferrell said, referring to his broadcast news anchor character from 2004’s “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy.”
“Ron is a fellow journalist,” he continued, gesturing to Daily Nexus reporters on the press line. “And he thinks he’s really good, but he’s awful.”
Maddy Fangio / Daily Nexus
The award was presented at a black-tie dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, and benefits SBIFF’s year-round educational programs. The 40th annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival will take place Feb. 4-15, 2025 in downtown Santa Barbara.
