7 Shocking New Directions Will Ferrell Is Taking In 2025: From Comedy Judge To Documentary Star

Will Ferrell, the comedy legend known for iconic roles like Ron Burgundy and Buddy the Elf, is entering a surprising new phase of his career, moving beyond the familiar slapstick to embrace darker comedy, heartfelt documentaries, and a powerful role behind the camera. As of this current date in December 2025, Ferrell is not just starring in a string of high-profile projects; he is actively reshaping his comedic legacy with a mix of big-budget studio films and deeply personal, independent work. The coming year promises a Will Ferrell that is both the familiar, hilarious star and a surprisingly introspective producer.

This deep dive explores the freshest updates, the most anticipated upcoming films, and the surprising new creative directions the former Saturday Night Live star is taking, proving that even after decades in the spotlight, he still has plenty of surprises left for his fans and the industry.

Will Ferrell: Complete Biographical Profile & Career Milestones

John William Ferrell is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer whose career spans sketch comedy, blockbuster films, and a significant presence in the production world. His unique brand of earnest, often absurd, and sometimes dark humor has made him one of the most successful comedians of his generation.

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• Full Name: John William Ferrell
• Born: July 16, 1967
• Birthplace: Irvine, California, U.S.
• Education: University of Southern California (B.A. in Sports Information)
• Early Career: Member of the Los Angeles-based improv group The Groundlings.
• Breakthrough: Cast member on Saturday Night Live (1995–2002), where he became famous for impersonations of figures like George W. Bush and Alex Trebek.
• Iconic Film Roles: Buddy the Elf (*Elf*), Ron Burgundy (*Anchorman*), Ricky Bobby (*Talladega Nights*), Brennan Huff (*Step Brothers*).
• Production Company: Co-founder of Gary Sanchez Productions (now dissolved) and founder of the female-focused Gloria Sanchez Productions.
• Recent Recognition (2024): Recipient of the Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film.

The 4 Major Upcoming Will Ferrell Movies & TV Projects for 2025

Ferrell’s schedule for 2025 and beyond is packed with diverse projects, from a star-studded wedding comedy to a revenge-fueled courtroom thriller, showcasing his range as both a performer and a producer. These films are where he is investing his creative energy, promising a fresh take on his comedic persona.

1. You're Cordially Invited (2025) - The Wedding Showdown

One of Ferrell's most highly anticipated 2025 releases is the Amazon Prime Video comedy You're Cordially Invited, where he stars opposite Academy Award winner Reese Witherspoon.

The plot centers on a disastrous double-booking at a picturesque island wedding venue. Ferrell plays Jim Caldwell, the widowed father of one bride, who clashes hilariously with Margot Buckley (Witherspoon), the sister of the other bride.

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The film chronicles their chaotic, high-stakes battle as both parties try to secure the perfect wedding for their loved ones at the same time, leading to a comedic war of attrition. This marks a major reunion of two comedy titans and is expected to be a massive streaming hit.

2. Judgment Day (Upcoming) - The Dark Comedy Judge

In a surprising twist toward darker comedy, Ferrell is set to star in Judgment Day, a film written and directed by Nicholas Stoller. He is joined by a stellar cast including Zac Efron, Regina Hall, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

Ferrell takes on the role of a megalomaniac TV judge, a character that allows him to tap into his talent for playing egotistical figures. The central conflict begins when a young convict, played by Zac Efron, takes the TV courtroom hostage in a revenge-fueled plot, blaming the judge for his predicament.

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This project is generating buzz for its intense premise, blending Ferrell's comedic timing with a high-stakes, almost thriller-like narrative, suggesting a spiritual successor to his earlier, boundary-pushing comedies like Old School.

3. Street Justice (Upcoming) - The Producer's Passion Project

Ferrell is not just acting; he is also heavily involved in production. He is set to star in and produce the 20th Century Studios comedy feature Street Justice.

The film, based on an original idea by Dave Callaham and directed by Peter Atencio, has been described as a major studio comedy. While plot details are still emerging, Ferrell’s dual role as lead and producer indicates a strong personal investment in the film’s creative direction, positioning it as a key project in his production slate for 2026 or 2027.

4. Despicable Me 4 (2024) - The Animated Return

Ferrell returned to the world of animation in 2024 with a voice role in the highly successful Illumination franchise, Despicable Me 4. This role showcases his versatility, allowing him to contribute to a family-friendly blockbuster while focusing his on-screen efforts on more mature, high-concept comedies.

The Documentary That Shocked Hollywood: Will & Harper

Perhaps the most significant and surprising project of Ferrell's recent career is the 2024 documentary Will & Harper. This film debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and represents a profound pivot toward a more personal, unscripted narrative.

The documentary follows Ferrell and his longtime friend, writer Harper Steele, on an emotional, cross-country road trip. The journey documents Steele’s transition as a transgender woman, offering a deeply intimate look at their enduring friendship and the evolution of their relationship.

Ferrell and Steele’s candid discussions about identity, change, and acceptance have been praised for their vulnerability and heartfelt honesty. This project provides a rare glimpse of the man behind the characters, demonstrating Ferrell's commitment to using his platform for meaningful storytelling outside the comedy genre.

Ferrell's New Focus: Gloria Sanchez Productions

Beyond his on-screen roles, Ferrell is a major force in Hollywood through his production company, Gloria Sanchez Productions. This entity has become his primary production arm following the reorganization of his previous company, Gary Sanchez Productions (co-founded with Adam McKay).

Gloria Sanchez Productions was specifically established with a focus on developing and producing female-led and female-driven film and television projects.

The company, led by Jessica Elbaum, reflects Ferrell’s conscious effort to promote diverse voices and narratives in the industry. This strategic move is a testament to his topical authority and influence, ensuring that his legacy extends beyond his own performances to shaping the careers of other comedic talent, particularly women.

By balancing massive studio comedies like You're Cordially Invited with the emotional depth of Will & Harper and the strategic, industry-shaping work of Gloria Sanchez Productions, Will Ferrell is redefining what a comedy icon can be in the modern entertainment landscape. The coming years will solidify his status not just as a comedic genius, but as a producer and artist with a surprising depth and a clear vision for the future.