Jerry Seinfeld’s Appearance at Duke University Spurs Debate and Applause Among Graduates

In a commencement ceremony that should have been a celebration of academic achievement, Duke University found itself embroiled in controversy as comedian Jerry Seinfeld’s speech prompted both applause and protest.

Jerry Seinfeld at Duke University

As Seinfeld, known for his iconic sitcom and observational humor, took the stage to address the graduating class, a small but vocal group of students staged a walkout, holding Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine.”

Their protest stemmed from Seinfeld’s previous expressions of support for Israel, particularly in the wake of the 2023 attack by Hamas.

Despite the disruption, Seinfeld remained composed, acknowledging the protesters with a wry smile before continuing with his speech. “Ah, the joys of commencement,” he quipped, his tone laced with his trademark humor. “I hope they didn’t leave because they heard my jokes in the ’90s.”

The scene was tense as the graduates, dressed in their caps and gowns, made their way out of Duke’s Wallace Wade Stadium, their voices echoing against the backdrop of Seinfeld’s speech. Some onlookers watched in confusion, while others nodded in support of the protesters’ message.

Meanwhile, Seinfeld continued undeterred, weaving jokes and anecdotes into his address.

“You know,” he mused, “I always thought my biggest challenge would be following up ‘Seinfeld.’ Turns out, it’s navigating geopolitics at a commencement ceremony.“

As Seinfeld’s speech drew to a close, the atmosphere shifted. The majority of the audience rose to their feet, applauding the comedian for his humor and insight. Chants of “Jer-ry! Jer-ry!” filled the stadium, drowning out the remnants of the protest.

In the aftermath of the ceremony, discussions raged across campus and beyond. Some lauded the protesters for standing up for their beliefs, praising their courage in the face of adversity. Others criticized their actions, arguing that engaging with differing viewpoints is essential for intellectual growth and societal progress.