In a recent podcast appearance, veteran comedian Will Ferrell shared memorable anecdotes from his time on Saturday Night Live (SNL). During the Jan. 10 episode of the New Heights podcast hosted by Jason and Travis Kelce, Ferrell reminisced about an unforgettable but unaired sketch featuring NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal. The discussion also touched upon Ferrell's experiences working with various athletes on SNL and his deep-rooted passion for basketball. This conversation provided a unique glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of SNL and highlighted the camaraderie between Ferrell and O'Neal.
Ferrell, who has been a prominent figure in comedy for decades, spoke fondly of his interactions with professional athletes during his tenure on SNL. He particularly emphasized how some athletes embraced their comedic roles wholeheartedly, despite the unconventional scenarios they were placed in. One such athlete was Yankees star Derek Jeter, whom Ferrell praised for his commitment to the sketches, regardless of how absurd they might have seemed. "He just threw himself into everything we threw at him," Ferrell noted.
The highlight of the conversation revolved around a 1998 SNL episode where O'Neal made a guest appearance. Despite not being the host, O'Neal left an indelible mark on that night. Ferrell recalled a sketch that was ultimately cut from the show due to its sheer hilarity. In this scene, all the cast members were teasing Ferrell, leading to a heartwarming moment when O'Neal intervened. "Shaq came over, picked me up, and we sang a duet called 'No One’s Gonna Hurt My Little Man,'" Ferrell said. Though this sketch never aired, it became a cherished memory for both Ferrell and O'Neal.
Beyond SNL, Ferrell recounted another humorous encounter with O'Neal in 2013. Disguised as a Staples Center security guard, Ferrell escorted the NBA legend out of the arena. What started as a prank turned into a memorable experience for both of them. "It was hilarious because Shaq thought it was so funny that I was pretending to throw him out of an NBA game," Ferrell explained. This spontaneous interaction showcased the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two.
Reflecting on his seven seasons on SNL, Ferrell expressed immense gratitude for the experiences and friendships he gained. He described SNL as the most challenging yet rewarding job of his career, one that fulfilled his lifelong dream. As SNL celebrates its 50th season, Ferrell acknowledged the show's significant impact on American comedy. His reflections provide valuable insights into the inner workings of a beloved institution in entertainment history.