Betty White Calls Ryan Reynolds “Brian”—and What Follows Is Comedy Gold
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
There’s no doubt about it—Betty White and Ryan Reynolds had one of the most delightful on-screen and off-screen friendships in Hollywood, and one of their funniest moments can be seen in a behind-the-scenes clip from the 2009 romantic comedy The Proposal. Directed by Anne Fletcher, the film features Reynolds as Andrew Paxton, an assistant to Margaret Tate (Sandra Bullock), and White as Reynolds’ character’s hilariously blunt grandmother. The on-screen chemistry between the actors was electric, but the real magic happened off-camera, where the playful banter between Reynolds and White led to unforgettable moments.
One such moment, shared by Reynolds on his Instagram for Betty White’s 99th birthday in January 2021, quickly became a viral sensation. In the clip, which was originally part of a Funny or Die skit, Reynolds and Sandra Bullock are conducting an interview when White unexpectedly walks into the frame. What happens next is pure comedy gold.
White, in her signature mischievous style, calls Reynolds “Brian,” mistakenly confusing him for her assistant. With all the seriousness of a boss asking her employee for coffee, White orders Reynolds to fetch her a drink, much to his mock surprise. “That’s because I’m not an assistant, Betty,” Reynolds responds, laughing. “I mean, I play an assistant in the movie.” But White isn’t done yet—she proceeds to jokingly chastise him, calling him a “terrible assistant” and throwing in a few choice words for comedic effect.
The moment is a perfect snapshot of their playful relationship on set, and it’s no wonder it has resurfaced time and again, especially following White’s passing in December 2021. The video, which first appeared on YouTube under the title “Sandra Bullock & Ryan Reynolds: Behind the Scenes of The Proposal,” is filled with lighthearted exchanges, further proving why their off-camera antics were just as entertaining as their performances.
In fact, this clip has been widely shared across social media platforms, with fans reveling in the delightful dynamic between Reynolds and White. A Newsweek article, for instance, highlighted how the video went viral following White’s death, showcasing the timeless humor of a moment that resonated with fans of all ages. Reynolds himself has frequently referred to White as “one of the funniest people” he’s ever worked with, and this clip is a testament to their genuine, funny, and affectionate bond.
Although the video shows Betty White mistakenly calling Ryan Reynolds “Brian,” a small detail often misremembered by fans, the humor is undeniable. White’s confusion, paired with Reynolds’ ability to roll with the punch, makes for a moment of pure comedic joy. Their chemistry on and off-screen added a layer of warmth and authenticity to The Proposal, and this behind-the-scenes moment serves as a perfect reminder of their one-of-a-kind friendship.
For those who haven’t yet seen the clip, it’s readily available on YouTube and continues to bring laughter to viewers, even years after its original release. It’s a rare glimpse into the camaraderie that made The Proposal such a hit—showing that even amidst the chaos of a film set, humor and heart can go hand in hand.
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