You just never know who might steal the spotlight during a live podcast show.
Will Ferrell made a surprise appearance at the Hollywood Bowl on Oct. 17 during a live taping of the hit podcast SmartLess, hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and our beloved Canadian, Will Arnett.
The Los Angeles amphitheatre was packed with tens of thousands of audience members who had come to watch the three hosts record an episode live on stage. But they were in for a few surprises when some unexpected stars showed up, including Ferrell.
The Anchorman funnyman, who grew up in Irvine, California — and who some would say has spent a lifetime in “a glass case of emotion” — kicked off the festivities with a rendition of our national anthem, “O Canada.” In a Canadian tuxedo, no less.
The crowd clearly wasn’t ready for such a patriotic performance, but, obviously, the internet had thoughts.
“His voice is like a combination of Fergie and Jesus,” one Instagram user commented after the video went viral.
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Ferrell may not have the voice of an angel, but he’s certainly got the spirit. And apparently, that’s all it takes to win over an entire nation, because people online are already making the case for Ferrell to become an honorary Canadian.
“He has ALWAYS been a hot, honorary Canadian, in my humble opinion,” commented Canadian Law & Order actress Jill Hennessy.
Other fans are pitching Ferrell for a slightly different role.
“Can we make Will Ferrell U.S. ambassador to Canada and give P. Hoekstra the boot?” one Instagram user asked.
They’re referring to Pete Hoekstra, the current U.S. ambassador to Canada, who has ruffled plenty of feathers with anti-Canadian comments, so much so that an online petition has been created to yank him from his post.
Fans continued to show love for the beloved actor who has shot many films in Canada, including the Christmas classic, Elf.
“He’s never looked better,” one user writes. “Love him even more now!” says another.
Even Canadian Tire — a store that many American celebrities seem to love, apparently — joined in, praising Ferrell’s performance for having “the most beautiful sound.”
Personally, it could have used more cowbell.
What do you think of Ferrell’s singing? Should we bring him back to perform “O Canada” more often? Let us know in the comments below.