Another Comedic Legend Almost Bagged Will Ferrell’s Elf Role Before Star’s Career Even Began
- Jim Carrey almost played Buddy Hobbs but chose the Grinch instead.
- Will Ferrell brought the character to life, making 'Elf' an iconic hit.
- The actor's worn-out Buddy look at the NHL game was legendary.
When we think of holiday movies, Elf is a must-watch. Will Ferrell’s portrayal of Buddy, the overly cheerful and syrup-loving human raised by elves, has become a Christmas tradition. But did you know Will Ferrell wasn’t the first choice to play Buddy Hobbs?
It’s crazy to think about, but back when Elf was still an idea, another comedic legend was Hollywood’s go-to choice for goofy, over-the-top characters. But fate had other plans, and Ferrell made Buddy the Elf his own. Lucky for us, he delivered a performance that turned Elf into a classic.
Jim Carrey almost played Buddy Hobbs in Elf
Before Elf became the holiday juggernaut we know today, the movie had a totally different plan for its lead character. According to Vulture, back in the early ’90s, Jim Carrey was the first pick to play Buddy Hobbs. With his rubbery face, endless energy, and huge success in movies like The Mask and Ace Ventura, Carrey seemed like the perfect fit.
The producers saw Carrey as Buddy, the human elf misfit in the big city. Yes, it was this close to happening. But things didn’t pan out. By the time Elf was ready to roll, Carrey had moved on. He was deep in Grinch mode, painting Whoville red and green. So the role of Buddy was up for grabs. Enter Will Ferrell.
Ferrell wasn’t exactly a household name yet. Sure, he’d crushed it on SNL, but leading a movie? That was uncharted territory. Still, the actor brought something magical to Buddy. His genuine sweetness, combined with a knack for physical comedy, made the character unforgettable. The movie smashed expectations, raking in $230 million globally (per Box Office Mojo).
Ferrell’s Buddy was a perfect storm of childlike wonder and laugh-out-loud moments. Could Carrey have pulled it off? Maybe. But Ferrell’s performance made Elf a modern classic.
Will Ferrell surprises NHL crowd as a tired-looking Buddy the Elf
Buddy the Elf, but make it 2024—and hungover. That’s the vibe Will Ferrell gave at a recent LA Kings game. Fans couldn’t get enough. Dressed in his iconic green and yellow ensemble, Ferrell looked less like Santa’s helper and more like Santa’s overworked accountant.
He showed up at the Crypto.com Arena to watch the Kings take on the Flyers. Seated with his wife and son, Ferrell played the part of a disgruntled elf. He had an unlit cigarette hanging from his mouth and a beer in hand. Buddy’s usual “smiling’s my favorite” energy? Nowhere to be found.
When the cameras caught him, he stared straight into the lens. Furrowed brows. Deadpan expression. The crowd went wild. Social media? Even wilder. Check out some fan reactions:
Ferrell even joked with a reporter, saying, “It’s been a tough holiday season.” Tough or not, his presence was lucky for the Kings. They beat the Flyers in a nail-biter, 5-4. Fans loved seeing this side of Buddy. Sure, it’s not the cheery elf we know, but it’s the one we didn’t know we needed. LA Kings energy meets Christmas chaos? Iconic.
Elf is available to stream on Hulu!
