Even Hollywood’s most poised stars have moments that make them want to disappear into the floor. For Anna Kendrick, that moment came during the early production of Trolls (2016), when nerves got the best of her in front of pop icon Justin Timberlake—resulting in a hilariously awkward name mix-up that she still describes as “a really big mistake.”
A Nervous Slip of the Tongue
Kendrick, who voices the ever-optimistic Princess Poppy, recalled that her tongue-tied moment happened during a recording session or team meeting for the first Trolls movie. Sharing the story years later with characteristic humor, she admitted she was so starstruck that she completely botched Timberlake’s name.
“I called him ‘Justin Timber-lake,’” Kendrick confessed. “It was a really big mistake. I just split it into two words. I think I was so excited to be near Justin Timberlake that my mouth decided it would just invent a new last name for him—and a worse one, at that.”
While the flub was minor, it immediately became a running joke. The rest of the team reportedly laughed it off, and even Timberlake took it in stride. But for Kendrick, the memory has stuck as one of those humbling reminders that even seasoned actors can have their “fangirl moments.”
From Awkwardness to Artistic Harmony
Despite the blunder, Kendrick and Timberlake went on to form one of the most beloved duos in modern animation. Their on-screen chemistry as Poppy and Branch became central to Trolls’ success, with their contrasting personalities—her relentless optimism and his cautious skepticism—creating both humor and heart.
The movie, directed by Mike Mitchell and Walt Dohrn, became a major hit, earning $347 million worldwide against a $125 million budget. It also launched a thriving franchise for DreamWorks Animation, including sequels, series, and a global fan base.
Timberlake’s dual role as both voice actor and executive music producer amplified the film’s success. His original song “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” became an international sensation, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.
Redemption Through Music
Perhaps the best example of their chemistry came not in a recording booth, but on stage. During the 2016 Cannes Film Festival, Kendrick and Timberlake performed a heartfelt acoustic rendition of Cyndi Lauper’s “True Colors,” a song featured in the movie. The performance showcased their vocal harmony and genuine connection—proof that an early mispronunciation had long since turned into a friendship built on mutual respect and creativity.
A Lighthearted Reminder
Kendrick’s candid confession is more than just a funny story—it’s a reminder that even accomplished artists are not immune to nerves. Her willingness to laugh at herself makes the moment even more endearing, adding to the warmth that both she and Timberlake bring to their Trolls partnership.
In the end, what began as a “really big mistake” turned into a charming chapter in one of animation’s most joyful collaborations—a moment of human imperfection behind a world full of perfect pop songs and colorful, singing Trolls.