Other actors include John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen, Gary Cole, Michael Clarke Duncan, Leslie Bibb, Jane Lynch, and Amy Adams, and appearances by Saturday Night Live alumni. But when a French Formula One driver, makes his way up the ladder, Ricky Bobby's talent and devotion are put to the test. Directed by Adam McKay. With Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Sacha Baron Cohen, Gary Cole. Number one NASCAR driver Ricky Bobby stays atop the heap thanks to a pact with his best friend and teammate, Cal Naughton, Jr. Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby is a 2006 American sports comedy film directed by Adam McKay and starring Will Ferrell, while written by both McKay and Ferrell. Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (2006) cast and crew credits, including actors, actresses, directors, writers and more.