Will Ferrell Biography John William Ferrell, born on July 16, 1967, is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer. Known for his comedic roles, Ferrell has earned six Emmy Awards and was award the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2011. In 2015, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was name the best comedian by British GQ. Ferrell made his mark in the mid-1990s as a cast member on Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he performed from 1995 to 2002. His breakout role came with the 2003 comedy Old School, after which he became a prominent member of the “Frat Pack,” a group of comedic actors from the late 1990s and 2000s, including Jack Black, Ben Stiller, Steve Carell, Vince Vaughn, Paul Rudd, and Owen and Luke Wilson.
Will Ferrell Biography
John William Ferrell was born in Irvine, California, to Betty Kay (Overman), a teacher, and Roy Lee Ferrell Jr., a musician. His parents hailed from Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. Ferrell attended the University of Southern California and developed an interest in performing while at University High School in Irvine. He famously made the school’s morning announcements in various disguised voices. He later joined The Groundlings, a renowned Los Angeles comedy/improv group, where he worked alongside future stars like Ana Gasteyer, Maya Rudolph, and former Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast members Laraine Newman, Jon Lovitz, and Phil Hartman. It was at The Groundlings that Ferrell formed a close friendship with Chris Kattan, and the two would go on to join the SNL cast. Ferrell also made appearances on several television shows, including Strangers with Candy (1999), Grace Under Fire (1993), and Living Single (1993).
Will Ferrell Biography Details
Born | John William Ferrell July 16, 1967 (age 57) Irvine, California, U.S. |
Education | University of Southern California (BA) |
Occupations | Actor comedian producer writer |
Years active | 1994–present |
Net Worth | |
Spouse | Viveca Paulin (m. 2000) |
Children | 3 |
Category | Biography |
About Will Ferrell
John William Ferrell is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer. He is known for his leading man roles in comedy films and for his work as a television producer. Ferrell has earned six Emmy Awards and in 2011 was honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.
- Born: 16 July 1967 (age 57 years), Irvine, California, United States
- Spouse: Viveca Paulin (m. 2000)
- Upcoming movie: You’re Cordially Invited
- Children: Magnus Paulin Ferrell, Mattias Paulin Ferrell
- Height: 91 m
Early Life and Education
Ferrell was born in Irvine, California, to Betty Kay, a teacher at Old Mill School and Santa Ana College, and Roy Lee Ferrell Jr., a saxophonist and keyboardist for the Righteous Brothers. Both of his parents were originally from Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, and moved to California in 1964. Ferrell’s ancestry includes English, German, and Irish roots. As an infant, he underwent a surgery to treat pyloric stenosis. He has a younger brother named Patrick.
At the age of eight, Ferrell’s parents divorced amicably. He fondly recalled thinking, “Hey, look at the bright side! We’ll have two Christmases!” Though his father’s work in show business often meant unpredictable pay and long absences, Ferrell grew up with a deep sense of family commitment despite these challenges. He initially sought a steady job rather than pursuing a career in show business, influenced by his father’s career.
How did Will Ferrell Become Famous?
Born in 1967 in Irvine, California, Will Ferrell is the son of Betty Kay (a teacher) and Roy Lee Ferrell Jr. (a musician who played for the Righteous Brothers). At 8 years old, Ferrell’s parents divorced, and he found comfort in making others laugh. Growing up in suburban Irvine, he said, “My main form of entertainment was cracking my friends up and exploring new ways of being funny.”
Ferrell developed a love for the arts alongside his passion for sports, leading him to study sports broadcasting at USC. However, he quickly realized that his true calling was comedy. Encouraged by his mother, Ferrell moved to Los Angeles, joined The Groundlings improvisational group, and began pursuing his comedy career. After a few minor successes, including small roles in movies and TV shows, Ferrell joined Saturday Night Live in 1995, quickly becoming one of the show’s most beloved and recognizable cast members.
Outside of Acting
Ferrell expanded his career beyond acting by taking on executive production roles for projects like The Other Guys, Succession, and Eastbound & Down. In 2007, he co-founded Funny or Die with director Adam McKay, a website known for its hilarious online shorts and a launchpad for many rising comedians. His love for sports also led him to become part-owner of the Major League Soccer team Los Angeles FC in 2016, alongside celebrities like Magic Johnson and Mia Hamm. In 2024, he purchased a minority stake in the English football club Leeds United.
How Much Does Will Ferrell Make Per Movie?
Ferrell’s earnings per film have varied greatly throughout his career. In his prime, he was one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood, earning up to $20 million per film for comedies like Kicking & Screaming, Semi-Pro, and Talladega Nights.
How Much Did Will Ferrell Make for Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy?
Ferrell reportedly earned $7 million for his iconic role as Ron Burgundy in Anchorman. However, this would be the last time he earned such a relatively low salary for almost a decade, as his salary would soon skyrocket.
How Much Did Will Ferrell Make for Elf?
For Elf, one of Ferrell’s biggest hits, he earned a reported $17 million. He was also reportedly offered $29 million for an Elf sequel, but ultimately turned it down as he wasn’t passionate about the project.
How Much Did Will Ferrell Make for Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby?
Ferrell was paid $20 million for his role in Talladega Nights, reflecting his peak earning power in the mid-2000s. This figure became standard for many of his subsequent films during that period.
How Much Did Will Ferrell Get Paid for Saturday Night Live?
During his time on Saturday Night Live, Ferrell became one of the highest-paid cast members. In 2001, his salary was reportedly $350,000 for the season. After seven years on the show, this salary was a fitting reward for his contributions.
How Much Does Will Ferrell Make from Sports Ownership and Executive Producing?
Ferrell’s ventures outside of acting also contribute to his income. His ownership stake in Los Angeles FC, which is valued at over $1 billion, and his minority stake in Leeds Unite are both profitable. Additionally, his work as an executive producer for shows like Succession adds to his wealth. At one point, his digital comedy platform Funny or Die was worth an estimate $300 million.
Will Ferrell’s Net Worth
Will Ferrell’s net worth is estimate at an impressive $160 million, thanks to his successful career in acting. Producing, sports ownership, endorsements, and investments in real estate. At the peak of his Hollywood career, he was one of the highest-paid actors, commanding up to $20 million per movie.