The Los Angeles Kings had an extra “referee” on hand during a New Year’s Day 5-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, one who happened to sit behind the glass.

Longtime actor and comedian Will Ferrell appeared during the NHL broadcast, sitting courtside. However, he did not have on his normal street attire. He donned an official NHL referee shirt and a protective helmet with the plexiglass shield.

As the game continued, Ferrell slapped the glass multiple times and appeared to make some calls regarding penalties. The players on the Kings and Lightning just did not hear them considering the actor’s location.

Will Ferrell is wearing full referee gear at the Kings game 😂 pic.twitter.com/Jb9M9V0vsF

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 2, 2026

“I’ve always been in support of the NHL referees,” Ferrell told reporter Carrlyn Bathe. “In fact, I actually trained two of the guys out here. Two of my prized students, Brandon and Francis. They’re calling a heck of a game, heck of a game. I’m telling (Francis), ‘Relax. You’re doing great.'”

Ferrell continued and explained that all of his “regulation” gear actually came from his collection. He owned the helmet, the whistle, and the branded shirt because he may have to put them on at a moment’s notice.

“You never know if one of these guys goes down, I may have to put on the skates and get out there.”

Will Ferrell says he’s ready to sub in as a referee at any moment tonight 😭 pic.twitter.com/rbYf4vf9cw

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) January 2, 2026

After all, injuries happen to people other than the players on the ice. Even referees need backups for pivotal games.

“You never know if one of these guys goes down, I may have to put on the skates and get out there,” Ferrell said while adding that he hasn’t put on ice skates in 15 years. Though he claimed that he is very nimble.

The game between the Kings and Lightning is not the first time that Ferrell has shown up for a sporting event in unexpected garb.

He also closed out 2024 by taking in a Kings game. That time, he showed up as a disheveled version of Buddy the Elf from the motion picture, “Elf.”

Ferrell had on the complete elf outfit, but he sported a 5 o’clock shadow and a fake cigarette. He sipped from a beer while watching the hockey match.

BUDDY THE ELF IS OFFICIALLY IN #HOCKEYWOOD 📍 pic.twitter.com/CYudAwXVvo

— LA Kings (@LAKings) December 30, 2024

Bathe also spoke to Buddy during the Kings game. She learned that he was a big fan of the Los Angeles team and that the elf had gone through a “tough holiday season” before heading to the rink.