“Elf” Star Mary Steenburgen Says She Actually Ate Spaghetti with Maple Syrup While Filming: ‘I’ve Had Worse’

Elf Star Mary Steenburgen Delights Fans with Behind-the-Scenes Story about Filming Iconic Spaghetti Scene

Mary Steenburgen, known for her role in the beloved holiday film “Elf,” recently shared a fun anecdote about filming one of the movie’s most iconic scenes. During an interview on the “Today” show, the actress revealed that she actually ate a plate of spaghetti with maple syrup while shooting the scene with co-star Will Ferrell.

Steenburgen, now 72, reminisced about the challenges of filming the scene where her character enjoys a unique meal prepared by Buddy the Elf, played by Ferrell. The dish featured spaghetti topped with chocolate, candy, and maple syrup, creating a quirky but memorable moment in the film.

The actress recalled how the scene, which was the very first in the movie, proved to be a humorous challenge. Steenburgen admitted to breaking character multiple times, especially as she tried to eat the unconventional meal while portraying her character. Despite not being a fan of the dish, she shared that she had certainly eaten worse in her life.

In a candid moment on the show, when asked if she actually consumed the unusual dish, Steenburgen confirmed that she did indeed eat it. Her willingness to embrace the unique experience highlights the fun and creativity that went into making the festive film a heartwarming classic for audiences of all ages.

Steenburgen’s insights into filming the spaghetti scene shed light on the camaraderie and laughter shared on set during the production of “Elf.” The actress revealed that working with Will Ferrell and the late James Caan, who played her co-stars in the film, often led to fits of laughter and ruined takes due to their on-set antics.

As viewers continue to enjoy the enduring appeal of “Elf” during the holiday season, Steenburgen’s story adds a special touch of behind-the-scenes magic to the beloved film. Her willingness to share anecdotes from filming provides fans with a deeper appreciation for the dedication and joy that went into creating a cinematic masterpiece that has stood the test of time.

With its timeless charm and festive spirit, “Elf” remains a beloved favourite for many, and Mary Steenburgen’s recent revelation about filming the spaghetti scene only adds to the film’s enduring legacy. As fans revisit the movie each holiday season, they can now appreciate the special effort and camaraderie that made the film a cherished classic for audiences around the world.