Mel Brooks gave the TCL Chinese Theatre the finger — the fake finger, that is. The celebrated actor, screenwriter, producer, and director made his mark on the famous venue’s walk of fame on Monday, Sept. 8, adding an unexpected 11th finger to his handprint.
Brooks, 88, was honored with a marker boasting his signature, handprint, and footprint in recognition of his years of work and the 40th anniversary of the Oscar-nominated Young Frankenstein, which he directed and co-wrote.
The Blazing Saddles director subtly attached a fake sixth finger to his left hand, altering his handprint to show two small fingers instead of just his pinkie.
“I desperately need to wash my hands,” Brooks tweeted after he solidified his mark in history, making no mention of the elephant — or 11th finger — in the room.
The beloved star kept his signature, footprints, and date recording classic, writing his name in cursive, taking steps in dress shoes, and printing the day in September.
“Hands are clean but the shoes will never be the same,” he tweeted later on Monday.
Following the TCL Chinese Theatre ceremony, Brooks stopped by Conan for a chat with Conan O’Brien.
After gushing about what an honor it was to be included among the walk’s “legends,” who made their imprints before him, Brooks explained his 11th finger.
“I wanted to do something, just a little, you know, a little different,” he said. “I didn’t know what… I got another finger! Somebody’s gonna come in from Des Moines, Iowa, and say, ‘Mother, mother! Mel Brooks’ left hand — does he have six fingers?’ ‘Yes, father! He’s got six fingers!'”