Mary Steenburgen is looking back on her funniest memories from filming the 2003 holiday classic Elf. In a new Today interview, she said the spaghetti scene — where Buddy the Elf serves her pasta covered in candy, chocolate, and maple syrup — was one she’ll never forget.
Steenburgen admitted she “actually did eat it,” though it wasn’t exactly her favorite meal. She also recalled repeatedly breaking character as Will Ferrell chugged soda and appeared on set in his now-iconic elf costume.
Speaking to PEOPLE for the film’s 20th anniversary, Steenburgen said she, Ferrell and the late James Caan often ruined takes from laughing so hard, noting that none of them were prepared for how absurd — or unforgettable — the scene would become.
