In recent years, the graduation speeches by actors have resonated with graduates, offering a blend of wisdom and encouragement. These speeches, delivered by individuals known for their performances in the world of entertainment, often emphasize themes of perseverance, authenticity, and embracing one’s uniqueness.
Actors often share personal experiences and insights, drawing parallels between the challenges they’ve faced in their careers and the journey that graduates are about to embark upon. Their messages inspire graduates to pursue their passions with dedication and to stay true to themselves in the face of adversity.
These speeches, while diverse in content, commonly echo the importance of hard work, resilience, and maintaining a sense of humor in navigating life’s ups and downs. Graduates are encouraged to approach their futures with creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks.
As the curtain falls on their academic journeys, the words of these actors serve as a source of motivation, reminding graduates that their unique stories and talents contribute to the rich tapestry of the world beyond graduation.
Maybe one of this speeches can inspire you too. Read them and let us know.
The list is a work in progress, so come back to check if there are new, interesting speeches.
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Idina Menzel
Idina Menzel,an actress and singer speaking at the University of Pennsylvania’s 267th Commencement, encourages the Class of 2023 to embrace the power of their voices. Reflecting on her experiences, she highlights the inevitability of imperfection and the importance of repetition in personal growth. she leaves them with the empowering message to let their voices be heard.
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John Krasinski
John Krasinski, delivered a humorous Baccalaureate address to the Class of 2019 at Brown University ,he delivered a speech titled “What Do I Know?” blending humor with reflections on Brown’s intellectual environment and collaborative spirit. he emphasized the transformative impact of his own involvement in a sketch comedy group during his time at Brown.
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Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler’s Harvard Class Day Address Reflecting on global events.She shares insights from her comedy career, emphasizing collaboration, risk-taking, and openness to others’ ideas Overall, Poehler imparts a lighthearted yet profound message about facing challenges and embracing joy in life.
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Kristen Bell
Actress Kristen Bell delivered a humorous and insightful commencement speech to USC School of Dramatic Arts’ class of 2019. She shared personal stories about the power of kindness, the unexpected downsides, and the importance of genuine connections. Bell emphasized patience, urged graduates to embrace nuance in life, and encouraged them to apply their artistic skills to real-world relationships
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Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh, Academy Award-winning actress, advocate, and UNDP ambassador, delivers a keynote speech to the HLS Class of 2023.She shares three key tips with the HLS Class of 2023. Stay loose—embrace flexibility. Know your limits—recognize internal and external boundaries. Find your people—build a supportive community. Yeoh emphasizes the transformative power of empathy and compassion
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Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks delivers a humorous commencement address at Harvard, encouraging the Class of 2023 to uphold truth and American ideals. Drawing on superhero analogies, he emphasizes the graduates’ responsibility in the ongoing battle for justice. Hanks calls for a commitment to the construction of a more perfect union and the preservation of liberty for all.