Did Will Ferrell Accidentally Ignite a Donut Rivalry?
Comedian Will Ferrell might have sparked an unexpected donut rivalry during his recent visit to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
After the gala screening of Ferrell’s new documentary Will & Harper, TIFF CEO Cameron Bailey presented him with a box of Tim Hortons‘ famous Timbits. The event, held at Roy Thomson Hall on Wednesday night, marked the premiere of the film, which follows Ferrell and former Saturday Night Live (SNL) head writer Harper Steele on a 16-day road trip across America after Steele announces her gender transition.
Throughout the documentary, one recurring joke is Ferrell’s persistent craving for Dunkin’ Donuts. So, when Bailey handed him the Timbits, it created a comical moment.
“You know about Timbits?” Bailey asked, passing the box to Ferrell.
Ferrell responded with a witty remark, “Funny story, I was good friends with Tim Horton’s grandson, Jeremy.”
A surprised Bailey asked, “Really?”
Without missing a beat, Ferrell replied, “No,” before promptly popping a Timbit into his mouth.
He then added, “Let’s see if they pass the test – I haven’t had dinner,” before dramatically proclaiming, “That’s WAY BETTER than Dunkin’ Donuts.”
A Journey of Friendship and Discovery
Ferrell, 57, and Steele, 63, share a long history, having met in 1995 during their first day at SNL. At that time, Steele, a native of Iowa City, was still known by her former name, which she now refers to as her “dead name,” Andrew Steele.
In Will & Harper, the duo embarks on a road trip that takes them through various stops, including Wal-Mart parking lots, diners, the Grand Canyon, and even honky tonks. Their interactions with people across America range from heartwarming moments—such as a spontaneous drum performance by Native Americans in an Oklahoma bar—to more challenging encounters, like receiving hate-filled tweets after an awkward meal at a Texas steakhouse.
Despite the ups and downs, Ferrell highlighted the human desire for kindness and connection during a Q&A session after the screening. “I think there’s also a thirst for civility out there that is palpable,” he remarked. “Everyone just wants to be kind to each other, and what we got to see is an extension of that.”
The light-hearted exchange about Timbits may have been a fleeting moment, but it added a touch of humor to a film that blends comedy and poignant reflections on friendship, identity, and the kindness that still exists in today’s world.