Comedy icon Jerry Seinfeld found himself at the center of controversy during a commencement speech at Duke University this past May — not for a joke, but for his support of Israel.
The 70-year-old Emmy-winning actor, best known for the legendary sitcom Seinfeld, was at Duke to receive an honorary degree. But as soon as he stepped on stage, dozens of graduating students stood up and walked out, chanting “Free, free Palestine” in protest of Seinfeld’s public stance amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict.
Jerry Seinfeld. Credit / Getty Images
💥 Tense Moment at Commencement
Seinfeld, who had remained publicly supportive of Israel following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2024, remained calm as students exited the ceremony. With a tight-lipped smile, he waited until the protest ended before delivering a line that blended composure with comic timing:
“Thank you. Oh my God, what a beautiful day.”
He didn’t directly address the protest in his speech, opting instead to shift the tone with humor and heartfelt advice. His approach echoed the lessons he’s shared over the years — about life, privilege, and the power of perspective.
💬 “Use Your Privilege,” Says Seinfeld
In a subtle nod to the controversy, Seinfeld told the audience:
“A lot of you are thinking, ‘I can’t believe they invited this guy.’ Too late.”
He went on to say:
“Use your privilege. I grew up a Jewish boy from New York. That is a privilege — if you want to be a comedian.”
🧑🎓 Duke Responds to the Protest
After the walkout, Duke University’s Vice President for Communications, Frank Tramble, issued a formal statement:
“We understand the depth of feeling in our community. As we have all year, we respect the right of everyone at Duke to express their views peacefully — without preventing graduates and their families from celebrating their achievement.”
The event has since sparked a wave of public reaction — some condemning the protest as disrespectful, others applauding it as a bold use of free speech during a time of global unrest.
🧠 Why This Moment Matters
In today’s politically charged climate, even comedians — whose job it is to bring humor and healing — are being drawn into debates that are deeply emotional and divisive. Seinfeld’s experience highlights how celebrity influence, even during a graduation speech, can become a platform for protest or unity.
Whether you support or oppose the students’ actions, one thing’s certain: this wasn’t your average commencement address.
📣 What Do You Think?
Was the student walkout at Duke a powerful moment of protest? Or was it a disrespectful act during a once-in-a-lifetime celebration?
Let us know in the comments — and share this story with someone who’s following the Israel-Palestine conflict or interested in the power of free speech in American education.