Will Ferrell Anchors Special Newseum Event; Legend of Ron Burgundy Cemented By New Museum Exhibit

NORTHWEST -- The Legend of Ron Burgundy was firmly cemented among Washingtonians on Tuesday evening, as a sold-out crowd filled the Newseum's Walter and Leonore Annenberg Theater for a special event headlined by television and film star Will Ferrell.

Yesterday's gathering, which drew over a dozen TV camera crews and just as many photographers, served to highlight the museum's newest exhibit, which features costumes, props, and footage from the 2004 hit comedy 'Anchorman'.

Ferrell was joined on stage by Washington Post movie critic Ann Hornaday for a relaxed question and answer session, which touched on everything from the actor's early 'Saturday Night Live' days to the genesis of the Funny or Die website.

With a follow-up movie, titled 'Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues', scheduled to hit theaters on December 18th, Ferrell has been actively promoting its release throughout the country over the past few weeks -- mostly while in character as the San Diego newsman he plays in the film.

His appearance last night just as himself, sans Burgundy persona, was therefore a rare treat for fans; many of which are household names themselves. Indeed, among the guests spotted mingling with the actor were representatives from all three branches of government, including House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi.

The host venue being the Newseum, there were naturally plenty of real life anchormen in attendance as well, such as NBC News Chief White House Correspondent Chuck Todd and NBC News reporter Luke Russert.

After the formal panel had finished, guests to Tuesday's event were invited to a reception on the museum's second level adjacent to the 'Anchorman' exhibit. Wait staff wearing burgundy jackets and (faux) Burgundy mustaches added to the playfulness of the night, although the food and drink might have taken a backseat to the Scotchy, Scotch, Scotch ice cream bar.

Stay classy D.C.