Will Ferrell reflects on past comedy choices and evolving perspectives
A shift in comedic sensibilities
In a recent interview, Will Ferrell opened up about his changing views on comedy, particularly regarding his past performances in drag. During a conversation on a popular podcast, Ferrell expressed regret over the “Janet Reno’s Fantasies” sketch from Season 23 of “Saturday Night Live” (SNL), where he dressed as the former attorney general for laughs.
“That’s something I wouldn’t choose to do now,” Ferrell admitted, acknowledging that the character “hits a false note now.”
His longtime friend and former SNL head writer, Harper Steele, echoed this sentiment, adding, “I understand the laugh is a drag laugh. It’s, ‘Hey, look at this guy in a dress, and that’s funny.’ It’s absolutely not funny. It’s absolutely a way that we should be able to live in the world. However, with performers and actors, I do like a sense of play.”
The evolving landscape of comedy
Steele delved deeper into the complexities of comedy and representation, questioning whether certain portrayals are humorous or hurtful. She cited Robin Williams‘s performance in “The Birdcage” as an example, pondering whether his portrayal of a swishy gay character was received positively or negatively by the LGBTQ+ community.
“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?”
Steele’s reflections highlight the ongoing debate about the boundaries of comedy and the importance of sensitivity in representation.
A journey of friendship and understanding
Steele and Ferrell’s friendship, which spans over three decades, is now the subject of the acclaimed documentary “Will & Harper.” The film, which premiered at Sundance and was subsequently acquired by Netflix, follows the duo on a road trip across America as they navigate their friendship following Steele’s transition.
Ferrell shared his initial reaction to Steele’s coming out, revealing that he had “zero knowledge” about the trans community before Steele’s transition.
“I had met trans people, but I didn’t have anyone personally in my life. So this was all new territory for me, which is why I think this film is so exciting for us to kind of put out there in the world.”
The documentary, set to stream on Netflix on September 27, offers a poignant exploration of friendship, identity, and the journey of understanding and acceptance.
Reflecting on past choices
Ferrell acknowledged that there are likely several sketches from his SNL tenure that he would reconsider today. He humorously deflected some responsibility onto the writers, saying, “I mean, in a way, the cast — you’re kind of given this assignment. So I’m going to blame the writers.”
Steele, who wrote for SNL from 1995 to 2008, also reflected on her past work, admitting that she wasn’t proud of everything she wrote.
“I wrote Monica Lewinsky stuff I wasn’t proud of. I wrote some good Britney Spears stuff and some stuff that I’m not as proud of. I wrote some Clinton things I wasn’t proud of. I’m just moving on. I have to.”
Embracing change and moving forward
The candid conversation between Ferrell and Steele underscores the importance of growth and the willingness to reassess past actions. As society evolves, so too must the perspectives and approaches of those in the public eye.
For fans of cinema and TV series, this dialogue offers a valuable reminder of the power of comedy to both entertain and impact societal norms. It also highlights the significance of empathy and understanding in fostering inclusive and respectful entertainment.
Watch the trailer for “Will & Harper” here.
As we look forward to the release of “Will & Harper,” it serves as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the transformative journey of self-discovery and acceptance.