Credit: NHL
Hollywood star Will Ferrell brought extra fun and flair to a recent NHL game, but not in the way most fans expected. On January 1, 2026, the actor and long-time Los Angeles Kings supporter showed up at the Crypto.com Arena dressed from head to toe in NHL referee gear.
Key Takeaways
- Will Ferrell showed up at a Los Angeles Kings hockey game dressed in full NHL referee gear and playfully “called penalties” from his seat.
- He was attending the game between the Kings and the Tampa Bay Lightning at Crypto.com Arena on New Year’s Day.
- Ferrell joked about being “nimble” and ready to step in if the real officials needed a break.
- The actor stayed in character, joked about training the referees, and even tested a whistle between periods, much to the amusement (and mild concern) of fans.
- This playful appearance continues Ferrell’s tradition of bringing humor and fan energy to Kings games.
Ferrell wasn’t officiating on the ice. He wasn’t holding a real whistle for the players. But from his seat near the glass during the Kings vs. Tampa Bay Lightning matchup, he made fans laugh and drew attention by playfully “calling penalties” on the arena video board, pointing at imaginary infractions and mimicking referee signals throughout the game.
The 58-year-old comedian explained his outfit in his signature humorous style during an interview with Kings reporter Carrlyn Bathe. Ferrell said he’s “always been in support of the NHL referees” and joked that he’d even trained the officials for the night, calling them his “prize students.”
In a playful twist, he also said he was ready to step onto the ice if needed. “You never know if one of these guys go down, I may have to put on the skates and get out there,” he quipped, despite admitting it had been many years since he last skated.
Ferrell’s referee costume wasn’t just for show. Between periods, he even gave a whistle a try, though the Kings organization reportedly asked him not to use it during actual play, something he took in good humor.
This isn’t the first time Ferrell has had fun with hockey culture. Last year he dressed as Buddy the Elf at a Kings game, and he’s been seen many times in the crowd with themed outfits, face paint, or spirited cheers that delight fans and media alike.
At the January 1 game, Ferrell’s presence added a lighthearted touch to the sport. His acting background in comedy and his genuine love of the Kings came together in a moment that fans described as funny, unexpected, and authentically spirited.
Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or just enjoy a bit of fun in the stands, Ferrell’s referee bit was a reminder that sports can be both competitive and joyful, and that sometimes a famous face in the crowd can make game night even more memorable. If stories like this, full of sports, smiles, and moments that make people laugh together, resonate with you, you’ll enjoy what we share at Simply Wholesome. Our site highlights uplifting, heartwarming, and playful moments from around the world that lift your spirits and remind you why life’s little joys matter.
Leave a comment