Hollywood actor Will Ferrell has shared an unexpected behind-the-scenes story about Lionel Messi, revealing the strict time limit the football superstar reportedly sets while filming commercial advertisements.
Ferrell, who has never met the Argentine legend himself, recounted the story during an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show. He said fellow actor Steve Carell told him about working with Messi during separate campaigns for Lay’s potato chips.
According to Goal, Ferrell appeared in the domestic Lay’s campaign, while Carell took part in the international version alongside Messi. During the interview, Ferrell claimed the Inter Miami star gives production crews just 30 minutes to complete every scene involving him.
“I talked to Steve Carell, who has met Messi,” Ferrell said. “I was in the domestic campaign for Lay’s potato chips; Steve was in the foreign campaign.”
“Apparently Messi was in, and Messi has a rule: when he hits the set, you got 30 minutes with Messi, and that’s it.”
Ferrell said the rule created an intense rush behind the scenes as everyone worked to finish filming before the deadline expired.
“So there was a frenzy of activity to hurry up and get all the shots with Messi; otherwise, he’s out. He’s vamos,” he added.
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history and among the finest athletes across any sport, lifted the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022 before joining Inter Miami. His global popularity has made him one of the world’s most sought-after commercial ambassadors.
Although some may question why Messi reportedly limits his time on set, Ferrell suggested the football icon likely balances multiple commitments throughout the day, making every minute of his schedule valuable.
