Celebrating Two Decades of the Legendary Ron Burgundy
Great Odin’s raven! It’s hard to believe, but Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy has turned 20. As the iconic comedy celebrates this milestone, Will Ferrell, the man behind the mustachioed newsman, couldn’t be prouder. The film, which features Ferrell as the titular anchorman Ron Burgundy, has left an indelible mark on pop culture, and Ferrell’s reflections on its legacy are as heartfelt as they are hilarious.
Anchorman: A Comedy Classic
Released in 2004, Anchorman quickly became a cult classic. The movie, directed by Adam McKay, stars Ferrell as Ron Burgundy, a chauvinistic and somewhat dim-witted news anchor in 1970s San Diego. The film’s cast is a comedic powerhouse, featuring Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, Christina Applegate, and David Koechner. Despite its bizarre and unconventional humor, Anchorman struck a chord with audiences and has remained a beloved comedy over the years.
Reflecting on the film’s success at the New York City premiere of Despicable Me 4 on June 9, Ferrell told PEOPLE, “I’m so proud of the legacy. And I think at the time, we couldn’t believe we were getting to make such a weird, bizarre movie. So I’m just so happy that it has kind of stayed in the zeitgeist all these years.”
Bringing Ron Burgundy to Life
Ferrell hasn’t just left Ron Burgundy in the past. He has occasionally revived the character to entertain fans in various forms. Most recently, he donned the iconic Burgundy persona for Netflix’s Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady. Introducing himself as “a living legend, a world-class lover, and the No. 1 news anchor in all of San Diego,” Ferrell’s performance was as hilarious and irreverent as ever.
At the roast, Ferrell, as Burgundy, poked fun at Brady, humorously flirting with the NFL star. “A person could get lost in those eyes and right now I am that person,” he quipped, before hilariously reminding himself to stay focused on the roast and not fall in love. This blend of charm, wit, and outrageousness is what makes Ron Burgundy such an unforgettable character.
The Legacy of Anchorman
Ferrell’s pride in Anchorman is palpable. The film, with its offbeat humor and memorable lines, has remained relevant, quoted, and loved by fans worldwide. From “Stay classy, San Diego” to “I’m kind of a big deal,” Ron Burgundy’s lines have become part of the comedic lexicon.
To keep the spirit of the film alive, Ferrell occasionally brings Burgundy into real-world events, ensuring the character remains in the public eye. His recent roast of Tom Brady is just one example of how Burgundy continues to entertain and surprise fans.
Campaigning for Sexiest Man Alive
At the Despicable Me 4 premiere, Ferrell channeled his inner Burgundy once again, this time campaigning for PEOPLE’s Sexiest Man Alive. “So get it going internally, all right? Sexiest Man,” he jokingly urged. Ferrell’s humor and charisma were on full display, proving that even two decades later, he knows how to keep audiences laughing.
The Impact of Anchorman on Comedy
The impact of Anchorman on comedy cannot be overstated. The film paved the way for a new era of improvisational and absurdist humor in mainstream cinema. Its success led to a sequel, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, released in 2013, which reunited the original cast and introduced new comedic talents to the Burgundy universe.
Ferrell’s collaboration with Adam McKay in Anchorman also marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would produce several more hit comedies, including Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby and Step Brothers. Their work together has been influential in shaping modern American comedy.
Ferrell’s Career Post-Anchorman
Since Anchorman, Ferrell has continued to be a dominant force in comedy. His roles in films like Elf, Talladega Nights, and Step Brothers have cemented his status as one of the most beloved comedic actors of his generation. His versatility and commitment to his characters, no matter how outlandish, have endeared him to audiences worldwide.
Anchorman’s Continued Relevance
The continued relevance of Anchorman speaks to its unique place in film history. Its humor, while rooted in the 1970s setting, is timeless. The film’s satirical take on the news industry and gender dynamics remains poignant, and its influence can be seen in many comedic works that followed.
Ferrell’s dedication to preserving Ron Burgundy’s legacy, through live appearances and special events, ensures that new generations of fans can discover and enjoy the character. The film’s quotable lines and memorable scenes have transcended its initial release, becoming part of the cultural fabric.
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Source: https://people.com/will-ferrell-is-proud-of-anchorman-legacy-exclusive-8660626