March 24, 2015: Comedy Legend Will Ferrell Receives Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Photo courtesy of Will Ferrell, Facebook
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Will Ferrell was honored with the 2,547th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday, March 24, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. PST. The star in the category of Motion Pictures was dedicated at 6767 Hollywood Blvd. in front of the Hollywood Wax Museum.

“Will Ferrell has made the world laugh with his hilarious characterizations and brilliant timing in films that have entertained so many people. We are proud to add this comedic genius to the Hollywood Walk of Fame!” stated Ana Martinez, producer of the Walk of Fame ceremonies. Hollywood Chamber President/CEO Leron Gubler was the emcee of the ceremony, and actors John C. Reilly and Molly Shannon were on hand to unveil the star.

Discover the Work of Will Ferrell

Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy in "Anchorman"
Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy in "Anchorman" | Photo courtesy of Anchorman, Facebook

Will Ferrell is one of today’s top comedy stars, creating iconic characters during his seven-year run on "Saturday Night Live" and then starring in numerous blockbuster movies.

Born and raised in Irvine, California, Ferrell graduated from USC with a degree in sports information. He worked as a sportscaster on a local weekly cable show before enrolling in acting classes and stand-up comedy workshops. After graduating from USC, Ferrell joined The Groundlings in 1994.

In 1995, Ferrell became a cast member of "Saturday Night Live," where he was joined by fellow Groundlings Cheri Oteri and Chris Kattan. On "SNL," Ferrell’s numerous impressions included George W. Bush, Harry Caray, Neil Diamond, James Lipton, Janet Reno and Alex Trebek. His work on "SNL" earned Ferrell two Emmy nominations in 2001, for Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program, and Outstanding Writing for a Variety, Music or Comedy Program.

Following "SNL," Ferrell starred in numerous hit comedies, including "Elf," a modern holiday classic directed by Jon Favreau, and his Mediocre American Man Trilogy: "Anchorman," "Talladega Nights" and "Anchorman 2." Ferrell showed his dramatic range in the critically acclaimed "Stranger Than Fiction." His voice acting roles include "Curious George," "Megamind" and "The Lego Movie."  

Ferrell is the co-founder of Funny or Die, a comedy video website featuring original and user-generated content. In 2011, Ferrell was the recipient of the prestigious Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Will Ferrell has come a long way since "SNL," crossing over from television icon to a motion picture star, producer and Internet pioneer.

It All Began with The Groundlings

Will Ferrell and Cheri Oteri on Saturday Night Live | Photo courtesy of Will Ferrell, Facebook

The Groundlings is a non-profit improvisation and sketch comedy theatre, founded by Gary Austin in 1974. A “Groundling” is one of the 30 company members who write and perform in the theatre’s shows and teach classes at The Groundling’s School. The school is renowned as the foremost comedy training ground in Hollywood and a springboard for literally hundreds of TV and movie careers. At every Groundlings show, you could be watching a future comedy superstar. Learn more about some of The Groundlings’ best alumni, including the great Will Ferrell.

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