Jerry Seinfeld Honored and Interrupted at Duke University Commencement

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld delivered the commencement address at Duke University on Sunday, May 12, 2024. Despite a small group of protesters walking out and chanting "Free Palestine," Seinfeld managed to deliver his speech without additional major interruptions.

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld's commencement speech at Duke University on Sunday, May 12, 2024, was a momentous occasion, marked by both honor and a minor disruption by anti-Israel protesters. As Seinfeld took the stage to address a crowd of over 7,000, a few dozen protesters walked out of their seats, chanting "Free Palestine."

The Duke audience, however, showed their support for Seinfeld, drowning out the protesters with chants of "Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!" and cheering for the comedian. Seinfeld's wife, Jessica, praised the crowd's reaction on her Instagram story, writing, "Amazing crowd @dukeuniversity today where Jerry gave the commencement speech and received an honorary degree."

Despite the brief interruption, Seinfeld managed to deliver his speech without further disruptions. In his address, he shared his "three real keys to life" with the graduating students:

1. Bust your a--

2. Pay attention

3. Fall in love

Seinfeld urged the new grads to try hard and try again if they fail, question risks, and appreciate the small things in life. He also took a subtle swipe at wokeism, saying, "Privilege is a word that has taken quite a beating lately. Privilege today seems to be the worst thing you can have. I would like to take a moment to defend it."

Growing up Jewish in New York, Seinfeld said, was a privilege for an aspiring comedian. Graduating from Duke University is another privilege for the students attending his speech, he added. "You went to Duke, that is an unbelievable privilege," he said. "We're embarrassed of things we should be proud of, and proud of things we should be embarrassed about."

Jessica Seinfeld concluded her Instagram story by expressing her pride in Duke University, writing, "You cannot beat this school. We are #ForeverDuke."

Seinfeld's commencement speech was met with praise from students and faculty alike. Duke University President Vincent E. Price wrote in a statement, "Jerry Seinfeld's speech was inspiring, funny, and thought-provoking. He shared valuable life lessons with our graduates, and we are grateful for his willingness to speak at our commencement."

Seinfeld's honorary degree from Duke University is a testament to his contributions to comedy and his commitment to education. He is a renowned comedian, actor, writer, and producer who has won numerous awards, including 10 Primetime Emmy Awards and three Golden Globe Awards.

The minor disruption at Duke University's commencement ceremony is a reminder that even on celebratory occasions, there may be those who seek to express their dissent. However, the overwhelming support shown by the audience for Seinfeld demonstrates that his message of hope and humor resonated with the graduating class and the wider Duke community.