During a visit to a Texas restaurant, actor Will Ferrell expressed regret after his co-star Harper Steele, a transgender activist and former Saturday Night Live head writer, received a negative reaction from diners following a toast supporting trans rights. The event unfolded while Ferrell and Steele were filming their Netflix documentary Will & Harper, which chronicles their cross-country journey after Steele’s transition in 2022.
The incident occurred at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo, Texas, where Steele praised the state but added, “I wish you guys would do more for trans rights.” This comment, met with initial silence and some groans, shifted the atmosphere in the restaurant. Ferrell attempted to recover the moment with a follow-up toast, but it did not ease the tension.
Steele later reflected on the experience, explaining how it made her feel like her identity was on display in an uncomfortable way. Ferrell also expressed remorse, stating he regretted not foreseeing the potentially negative reception. He admitted to feeling responsible for putting Steele in an awkward situation, acknowledging that he had not anticipated the intensity of the reaction.
The moment, which was not included in the documentary, has since sparked conversations about trans rights and how public figures handle sensitive issues in public spaces.