It may come as a surprise to learn that more people have reported seeing an alien than a transgender person in their lives¹. Yet, this is the reality that inspired Will Ferrell, the renowned comedic actor, to lend his voice and platform to humanize the transgender experience in the acclaimed Netflix documentary, “Will & Harper.”¹ Ferrell’s entrepreneurial journey extends far beyond his iconic roles in hit comedy films like “Old School,” “Anchorman,” and “Elf.”² As a savvy business leader, he has made a name for himself as a co-owner of the Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and a recent investor in the English football club Leeds United.

Born in Irvine, California, on July 16, 1967², Ferrell’s rise to fame began on the iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he was a cast member from 1995 to 2002². During his tenure, he became one of the highest-paid cast members, earning a season salary of $350,000 in 2001². Ferrell’s success on SNL paved the way for his transition into the world of film, where he has starred in numerous hit comedies and even ventured into more dramatic roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Will Ferrell: From SNL Funnyman to Business Mogul

Will Ferrell’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The former Saturday Night Live (SNL) cast member, known for his iconic sketch comedy performances, has seamlessly transitioned from the world of entertainment to becoming a successful entrepreneur³.

Exploring Ferrell’s Rise as a Comedic Icon and Successful Entrepreneur

Ferrell’s early days on SNL showcased his exceptional comedic talent, as he brought to life beloved characters like Ron Burgundy from the Anchorman franchise and Buddy the Elf from the holiday classic Elf⁴. His ability to captivate audiences through his hilarious and versatile performances solidified his status as a comedic icon, paving the way for his successful transition to the silver screen⁴.

However, Ferrell’s entrepreneurial prowess extends far beyond his acting career. He has leveraged his fame and business acumen to become a co-owner of the Major League Soccer (MLS) team Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), a venture that has allowed him to make a positive impact on the community³.

His Journey from Sketch Comedy to Film and Entrepreneurial Ventures

Ferrell’s versatility and adaptability have been key to his success. While he rose to fame through his sketch comedy work on SNL, he has seamlessly transitioned to the world of feature films, starring in a string of hit comedies such as Old School and Anchorman⁴. This versatility has allowed him to not only maintain his status as a beloved funnyman but also explore new avenues of entrepreneurship, further diversifying his portfolio and cementing his place as a true business mogul³.

“I’ve always been someone who’s been interested in business and kind of looking at the big picture, not just the creative side of things.” – Will Ferrell

Ferrell’s entrepreneurial ventures, combined with his continued success in the entertainment industry, have solidified his status as a multifaceted and influential figure in the world of comedy, sports, and beyond³. As he continues to explore new opportunities and push the boundaries of his talents, Ferrell’s journey from SNL funnyman to business mogul serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and entertainers alike³.

Will Ferrell’s Entrepreneurial Endeavors: LAFC and Beyond

Known for his iconic comedic roles, Will Ferrell has also made a significant impact as an entrepreneur. His co-ownership of the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) has showcased his passion for sports and his commitment to being a force for good in the community⁵.

LAFC: A Force for Good in Los Angeles

Under Ferrell’s leadership, LAFC has been recognized as the Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Greater Los Angeles Award winner, highlighting the club’s innovative approach and dedication to making a positive impact in Los Angeles. Ferrell’s strategic investments and partnerships in the global soccer industry have further solidified his position as a visionary entrepreneur in the sports and entertainment sectors⁶.

Ferrell’s Global Soccer Investments and Partnerships

Beyond LAFC, Ferrell has made strategic investments and formed partnerships with other soccer clubs, such as Grasshopper Club Zurich in Switzerland and FC Wacker in Austria, as well as a collaboration with Germany’s FC Bayern Munich. These global soccer initiatives showcase Ferrell’s vision for expanding his entrepreneurial reach and his commitment to the sport⁷.

“Will Ferrell has been instrumental in the success and community impact of LAFC. His leadership and strategic investments have positioned the club as a true force for good in Los Angeles.”

Will Ferrell: Investor and Co-Owner of Leeds United

As the world of sports and entertainment collides, actor and comedian Will Ferrell has emerged as a key player in the global football (soccer) landscape. In addition to his involvement with Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC, Ferrell has recently become a minority investor and co-owner of the English football club Leeds United⁸⁹¹⁰.

Following in the Footsteps of Celebrity Football Club Owners

Ferrell joins a growing list of high-profile celebrities, including fellow actors Russell Crowe and Ryan Reynolds, who have invested in English football clubs¹⁰. These A-list investors are drawn to the sport’s passionate fan base and global appeal, seeking to contribute to the success of their respective clubs⁹. As a co-owner of Leeds United, Ferrell aims to play a role in the club’s quest to return to the Premier League, the top tier of English football⁸¹⁰.

Ferrell’s investment in Leeds United, a club with a rich history and dedicated fanbase, aligns with his entrepreneurial spirit and love for the sport¹⁰. By joining the ownership group, Ferrell has positioned himself at the intersection of two of his passions: entertainment and football⁹.

The Allure of English Football for Will Ferrell

As a successful entertainer and businessman, Will Ferrell has found himself increasingly drawn to the allure of English football. His investment in Leeds United and his attendance at matches of Wrexham and Liverpool showcase Ferrell’s growing fascination with the sport across the pond¹¹.

The passion and tradition of English football have captivated Ferrell, who recognizes the global appeal of the English Premier League. His involvement in English football clubs reflects his diverse business interests and his desire to contribute to the success of teams beyond his home country of the United States¹².

Ferrell’s investment in Leeds United through the 49ers Enterprises ownership group, alongside other notable figures like Russell Crowe, Michael Phelps, and golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, showcases his commitment to the sport and its potential for growth¹¹.

As soccer continues to gain traction in the United States, Will Ferrell’s involvement in English football clubs highlights the increasing allure of the sport to celebrity owners and investors. Ferrell’s passion for the game and his desire to be a part of its global success story make him a compelling figure in the world of English football¹².

Will Ferrell’s Passion for Sports and Entertainment

Exploring Ferrell’s Love for Soccer and His Diverse Business Interests

Will Ferrell’s entrepreneurial ventures and investments in the sports and entertainment industries demonstrate his multifaceted interests and passion. Beyond his successful acting career, Ferrell has leveraged his fame and business acumen to become a co-owner of the MLS team LAFC and a minority investor in the English football club Leeds United¹³. Ferrell’s involvement in these global soccer ventures, as well as his partnerships and collaborations, showcase his versatility and ability to thrive in diverse business endeavors.

Ferrell’s passion for sports extends beyond his investments, as evident from his documentary “Will & Harper.” The film, which¹⁴ opened in theaters and will premiere on Netflix later this month¹⁴, follows Ferrell and his friend Harper Steele, a trans woman, on a 17-day road trip¹⁴ from New York City to Los Angeles, with stops in various locations, including dive bars, diners, and a Texas steakhouse with a 72-ounce cut challenge¹⁵. This journey showcases Ferrell’s willingness to use his platform to highlight the trans experience and promote acts of civility¹⁴.

Ferrell’s diverse business interests and his commitment to social causes demonstrate his versatility and the breadth of his passions. Whether it’s his involvement in the sports industry, his philanthropic efforts, or his exploration of the trans experience in his documentary, Ferrell’s multifaceted approach to his career and personal life is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and his desire to make a positive impact in the world.

Source Links

1. https://www.newsweek.com/will-ferrell-harper-steele-will-harper-trans-lgbtq-snl-netflix-1960412 – Reason Will Ferrell “error” included in Netflix film explained by director
2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_Ferrell – Will Ferrell
3. https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/features/will-ferrell-harper-steele-netflix-b2618823.html – Will Ferrell: ‘I don’t know why trans people are meant to be threatening to me’
4. https://www.wonderwall.com/entertainment/movies/will-ferrell-movie-roles-ranked-worst-best-3012525.gallery – Will Ferrell’s best movies
5. https://www.therichest.com/despicable-me-4-cast-net-worth/ – Minions With Millions: The Despicable Me 4 Cast, Ranked By Net Worth
6. https://deadline.com/2024/10/will-ferrell-harper-steele-recount-intense-transphobia-texas-diner-doc-1236108347/ – Will Ferrell & Harper Steele Recount “Intense” Moment Of Transphobia At Texas Diner From Doc
7. https://www.foxnews.com/media/ferrell-regrets-awkward-texas-restaurant-visit-after-co-star-booed-trans-rights-toast – Will Ferrell regrets awkward Texas restaurant visit after co-star booed for trans rights toast
8. https://www.theguardian.com/football/article/2024/may/05/will-ferrell-minority-investor-leeds-united-reports – Classy Leeds? Will Ferrell set to join celebrity investors at football club
9. https://sports.yahoo.com/ferrell-invests-leeds-united-becoming-110317357.html – Hollywood actor Will Ferrell invests in Leeds United
10. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5472473/2024/05/05/leeds-will-ferrell-investment/ – Will Ferrell joins Leeds United as minority investor
11. https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/05/championship-play-off-final-leeds-southampton-clash-for-premier-league-return/ – Championship play-off final: Leeds, Southampton clash for Premier League return
12. https://www.lentoagency.com/insights/the-rise-of-football-soccer-as-the-new-market-trend-in-the-us-opportunities-and-insights – The Rise of Football (Soccer) as the New Market Trend in the US: Opportunities and Insights
13. https://facts.net/celebrity/42-facts-about-will-ferrell/ – 42 Facts About Will Ferrell
14. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/will-and-harper-documentary-will-ferrell-harper-steele-on-a-unique-road-trip/ – “Will & Harper”: Will Ferrell embarks on a unique road trip with his best friend
15. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/ferrell-great-netflix-movie-finds-094000018.html – Will Ferrell Has Made a Career of Playing Oafs. That’s What Makes His New Netflix Movie So Powerful.