Will Ferrell Feels 'So Lucky' to Have DoneElf: It 'Continues to Resonate in a Way That's Pretty Incredible' (Exclusive)

Mar. 15, 2025

Will Ferrell in ‘Elf,’ Will Ferrell in September 2024.Photo:Alan Markfield/New Line Prods/Kobal/Shutterstock; Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

Alan Markfield/New Line Prods/Kobal/Shutterstock; Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

Will Ferrellwill always have a special place in his heart forElf.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the actor, 57, reacts to it being over two decades since the holiday film was released and reflects on the impact it still has on audiences new and old to this day.

Noting that the film “really means so much to so many people,” the star — who has partnered withPayPal— continues, “And not only during the holidays, but year-round. I have people come to me saying, ‘We watchElfon July 4th. We just love it.’ "

“So that’s what’s so great about what I get to do,” adds Ferrell. “You never really have an idea of what’s going to land with people, and I love the fact that this movie continues to resonate in a way that’s pretty incredible.”

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE’s free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Will Ferrell in ‘Elf.'.Alan Markfield/New Line Prods/Kobal/Shutterstock

Alan Markfield/New Line Prods/Kobal/Shutterstock

The PEOPLE Puzzler crossword is here! How quickly can you solve it? Play now!

Back in 2021, Ferrell appeared on the cover ofThe Hollywood Reporterand spoke about the success of the film, which earned over $220 million worldwide against a $33 million budget, and how plans for a sequel never panned out.

Ferrell told the outlet he turned down the sequel, and a$29 million paycheck, due to it having a similar premise as the original movie. “I would have had to promote the movie from an honest place, which would’ve been, like, ‘Oh no, it’s not good. I just couldn’t turn down that much money,'” Ferrell toldTHR. “And I thought, ‘Can I actually say those words? I don’t think I can, so I guess I can’t do the movie.’ "

Elfis available to stream.

source: people.com