Steve Carell Praised for Unconventional Address to Graduates

Steve Carell built a career a career for himself by taking risks and trusting that things would work out in the end, and that's exactly what he asked one graduating class to do while speaking at a recent commencement ceremony.

During his speech at Northwestern University on Sunday, Carell asked the crowd to rise to their feet before beginning what he called the "mid-commencement address dance break."

“That’s Not My Name” by The Ting Tings played in the United Center as the former star of "The Office" danced with the university's staff and faculty as the former students followed suit.

“That was as invigorating as it was disturbing,” the actor said after high-fiving several graduates in the crowd.

steve carell breaks out into dance during northwestern university commencement speech pic.twitter.com/J4y9U6C2in

— nat (@unclefrxnk) June 16, 2025

Carell's address to students was highlighted by the sudden moment of fun, but he also took time to level with them about the realities they're facing after finishing their education.

“It’s difficult for me to process just how much you’ve all experienced in your young lives. I feel your anxiety and your fears about the world around you and it’s heartbreaking to me,” the actor said, according to CNN.

“You have already had to overcome a lifetime’s worth of turmoil and uncertainty and it doesn’t seem fair.”

He urged the graduates to be kind to one another, and to remember that they're not alone when facing difficult moments in their lives.

Carell has taken on more varied roles in recent years, starring in more dramatic productions like "Last Flag Flying" and "Welcome to Marwen." He's remained one of the most beloved comedic actors in Hollywood, and continues to star in hit films like the "Despicable Me" series.

Northwestern is known for its journalism program, producing a total of 47 Pulitzer Prize winners. Notable names to come from the school include Michael Wilbon, George R.R. Martin, Mike Greenberg and Rich Eisen.

“Kindness isn’t a weakness — it is a very potent strength," Carell told the graduates, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

“Turn your jealousy into admiration and use it to fuel your ambition in a positive way.”

We'll see if the class of 2025 takes his advice to heart.