Ben Stiller reveals how 'Meet The Parents' franchise avoided R rating over character name

Ben Stiller revealed that the "Meet the Parents" franchise almost received an R rating due to his character's last name, "Focker." The Motion Picture Association of America required proof that the name existed in real life to avoid the stricter rating. Stiller discussed this during an appearance on "Hot Ones," recalling the "ridiculous" notes from the ratings board. He confirmed that the filmmakers had to "clear names somehow" to keep the PG-13 rating. He also mentioned facing the arbitration board for "Zoolander," which was initially rated R due to its content. Stiller argued that other films had more controversial material, ultimately leading to a successful appeal.