Will Ferrell and Harper Steele’s Road Trip Documentary Highlights Trans Experiences

Harper Steele, a former writer for “Saturday Night Live,” reflects on her experiences of acceptance and challenges as she embarks on a cross-country road trip with longtime friend Will Ferrell in their new Netflix documentary. The film showcases their journey from New York to California, traversing regions that may not be as welcoming to transgender individuals.

After Steele transitioned into a woman, she and Ferrell sought to redefine their relationship by traversing a wide swath of the American landscape. Their experiences during the journey are generally positive, including a memorable karaoke session in Illinois and a nostalgic visit to Steele’s childhood home in Iowa. However, their travels took a tense turn in Texas at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, known for its 72-ounce steak eating challenge.

As a comedic gesture, Ferrell dons a Sherlock Holmes costume, drawing the attention of restaurant patrons. The situation grows uncomfortable when an employee struggles to acknowledge Steele correctly, and diners focus their smartphones on the duo. Despite feeling anxious, Steele raises a toast to the state of Texas, advocating for greater trans rights. Her remarks are met with silence, save for one patron’s lukewarm attempt at solidarity.

The documentary, directed by Josh Greenbaum, does not shy away from these uncomfortable moments. Speaking to media, Greenbaum emphasizes the importance of inclusion in showcasing the reality of trans experiences, particularly the hostility and prejudice encountered both in-person and online. A subsequent social media backlash post-visit reinforces this narrative.

Ferrell expressed regret over the scenario, acknowledging a lack of preparation for the intensity of their reception. “I didn’t really have a grasp on how intense it was going to be,” Ferrell noted. Reflecting on the trip, Steele points out that traveling with Ferrell may have shielded her from a “real trans experience” but has since proven her ability to navigate these spaces independently.

Steele and Ferrell have a longstanding camaraderie dating back to their “Saturday Night Live” days. Their collaboration on this documentary, “Will & Harper,” is part of a broader effort by Ferrell to promote more inclusive storytelling through his production work.

The film has sparked conversation about acceptance and support within the LGBTQ+ community, with viewers expressing newfound understanding of transgender issues. Both Ferrell and Steele aim for the documentary to promote empathy and action among its audience, reflecting on their personal and professional journeys toward advocacy.