Behind the Inspiration of Ron Burgundy: How Jessica Savitch Inspired 'Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues'

For film enthusiasts and fans of comedic cinema, the name Ron Burgundy might come to mind upon hearing the title 'Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues'. This 2013 blockbuster, directed by Adam McKay, is a sequel to the 2004 hit 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy'. The movie dives into the lives of legendary news anchors, much like the original, but with a more mature and introspective tone. However, have you ever wondered about the real-life inspirations behind Ron Burgundy? In this article, we will explore how Jessica Savitch and Mort Crim, a co-anchor from Philadelphia, played a surprising role in the creation of one of Will Ferrell's most memorable characters.

The Role of Jessica Savitch

The story begins with an interview that Will Ferrell watched on Rolling Stone. He came across a documentary about Jessica Savitch, an iconic news journalist from Philadelphia. Savitch hosted her long-running show The Jessica Savitch Show from 1971 to 1985. Her career left a significant impact on the local media landscape, and her story intrigued Ferrell enough to delve deeper into her life and experiences.

In this documentary, Jessica Savitch talks candidly about her journey in broadcasting and shares some powerful insights with the filmmaker. However, what surprised Ferrell the most was a segment where one of her co-anchors, Mort Crim, admitted with the benefit of hindsight that he had been somewhat rude and sexist towards her. This revelation brought to light an important aspect of Savitch's professional and personal life, which was rarely emphasized in her public persona.

The Inspiration for Ron Burgundy

Will Ferrell found this admission by Mort Crim particularly enlightening. It resonated with him and provided a new perspective on Savitch's character and the challenges she faced in her career. He saw parallels between Savitch's experiences and the fictional Ron Burgundy, the main character of the movie. Here, Ron Burgundy is portrayed as a man who, despite his comedic and charismatic persona, is not immune to the sexist attitudes of his time. This narrative choice allowed the film to explore themes of gender equality and the changing dynamics of gender roles in the media industry.

The Legacy of Mort Crim

Mort Crim, the Philadelphia co-anchor who admitted to his inappropriate behavior towards Jessica Savitch, was a real person who played a significant role in the story of Savitch's career. While he may not have been the primary inspiration for Ron Burgundy, his acknowledgment and the subsequent revelations about his behavior provided a crucial layer of authenticity to Ron Burgundy's character. This authenticity contributed to the movie's complex portrayal of these broadcasts and their role in shaping public opinion.

Examining the Film 'Anchorman 2'

As mentioned, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues delves deeper into the world of the news broadcast. Through the eyes of Mort Crim and the female journalists of the time, the film explores the challenges faced by women in a traditionally male-dominated industry. It is a poignant reminder of how far the industry has come, but also a controversial exploration of issues that continue to resonate today. The film's nuanced portrayal of its characters, particularly Mort Crim and Jessica Savitch, adds depth and complexity, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of humor and social commentary.

Conclusion

Will Ferrell's portrayal of Ron Burgundy in 'Anchorman 2' is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of authenticity in character development. The inspiration behind Ron Burgundy, drawn from the real-life experiences of Jessica Savitch and Mort Crim, adds a layer of realism to the film that makes it both entertaining and thought-provoking. By examining the societal issues that influenced the creation of this character, we gain a deeper appreciation for the film's message and its ability to contemplate the evolution of gender roles in media.

Ultimately, the story of Ron Burgundy in 'Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues' serves as a bridge between the past and the present, highlighting the struggles and the triumphs of feminists in the news industry. It is a film that not only entertains but also educates its audience, making it a valuable addition to the pantheon of comedic classics.