The story behind Elf's Viral Mailroom Line is revealed and I'm so glad it wasn't canceled

Eleven has easily become one of the best Christmas movies of the 2000s, and how could that be different with Will Ferrell playing an orphaned elf? It’s definitely one of his best and funniest films because with every new year, new scenes seem to spread virally. The mailroom scene between Buddy the Elf (Ferrell) and Mailroom Guy (Mark Acheson), which was incredibly memorable and all over the internet, was almost cut. The infamous “26 year old” tells the story of how he almost got scratched and I’m so glad he found his way to us.

Will Ferrell just celebrated ElevenLast year I celebrated my 20th anniversary and I still can’t believe it could have been much darker. The incredible Christmas comedy is, in my opinion, perfect as is and after hearing what Acheson shared PeopleI’m even happier to have the film as it is. As the actor recalled:

Because of this, the producers wanted to cut the entire scene. I’m like, ‘Who’s going to believe this guy is 26?’ I mean, seriously. I think I was 46 years old at the time and older, 46 years old. Because I’ve never looked young in my life.

The 67-year-old shared that he was only supposed to have one line on set (“Work Release”), but director Jon Favreau had a different idea. And that’s what we see today. Acheson aka Mailroom Guy and Buddy discuss their career goals in detail and drink some “syrup”. This scene happens after the overgrown elf is sent to work in the mailroom by his father and gets a quick tour, but almost didn’t make it into the film.

After finishing their drinks, the two lie on two mailboxes and open each other’s mail. Acheson talks about how he needs to stop going with the flow. Buddy, of course, responds very supportively, and then comes the iconic line from our favorite mailroom employee: “That’s what got me here.” I’m 26 years old and have nothing to show for it.”

Mark Acheson as Mailroom Guy in the film Elf.

(Image credit: Warner Bros.)

It speaks so well of so many career aspirations, expectations and goals that have been dashed – and that’s understandable for many (hence the virality). The moment is all the more beautiful when the enthusiastic elf reassures him, because his (North Pole) father only achieved his goals when he was 490. And of course no one believes that the person is 26.

The one-liner became an iconic scene partner Saturday Night Live alum shared that Favreau fought with producers over this. They wanted to cut the entire moment, but the actor-director promised the joke would land, which it did, changing Acheson’s career. The mailroom joke adds another dimension to “Buddy,” enriching the whole story and, of course, cementing it as a holiday staple.

Ferrell also shared Eleven fans specific film habits something I would never have thought about myself, but which expresses the beloved nature of the 2003 film. Favreau had some great remarkable works which have become fan favorites and continue to be streamed regularly annually (or more often). I’m happy that the director has an incredible gut feeling that pays off in his projects.

As for the post office scene, I’m so glad to know the history behind it and its existence. It makes many of us who have struggled through the stages of our desires – no matter our age – all the more likeable and memorable.

Check out the improvised scene and the rest Eleven with a Hulu subscription or Maximum subscription.

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