Comedian Will Ferrell recently recounted his brief and humorous stint working at Disneyland, a job that lasted just one day. Sharing the story on the “Good Hang” podcast hosted by fellow comedian Amy Poehler, Ferrell described how he had anticipated a more entertaining role at the Anaheim, California, theme park but was instead assigned to a ticket booth position.

Ferrell had hoped to be stationed in a more playful capacity, such as operating the Jungle Cruise ride, where he could showcase his comedic talents. However, during orientation, he learned that becoming a Jungle Cruise skipper, known for delivering jokes to guests, required years of experience. Disappointed, he opted to quit almost immediately.

Rather than calling Disneyland himself, Ferrell enlisted a friend named John to contact the human resources department on his behalf. When asked for a reason for leaving, John jokingly replied that Ferrell had a tryout with the Dallas Cowboys football team. The HR staff accepted the explanation without follow-up.

Following his departure, Ferrell quickly found alternative work at a surf shop in nearby Newport Beach managed by a friend, earning the same hourly wage of $5.50. The story remains a source of amusement for Ferrell decades later.

Although he did not specify exact dates, the episode likely took place while he was a student in the 1980s, possibly at Irvine’s University High School or the University of Southern California. Ferrell has described his youth in suburban Irvine as quiet and uneventful, prompting him to create humor as a form of entertainment with friends.

Before embarking on his comedy career, Ferrell pursued football at USC, attempting to join the team as a walk-on kicker, though he was not ultimately selected. He later gained fame for roles in films such as “Elf,” “Anchorman,” “Megamind,” “Talladega Nights,” and “The Lego Movie.” Currently, Ferrell stars in the Netflix comedy series “The Hawk,” which centers on a former professional golfer who struggles to let go of his career.