Steve Carell Stresses “Kindness Is Not a Weakness” in Commencement Address Rich with Life Guidance
Actor and comedian Steve Carell has had the opportunity to delve into various facets of the human psyche throughout his journey in film and television. From the amusing Michael Scott, the anxious manager in The Office, to the more serious role of uncle Frank in Little Miss Sunshine (2007), these personas have imparted numerous life lessons on Carell. During his recent graduation address at Northwestern University, he offered a wealth of perceptive guidance to the class of 2025, while infusing a comedic flair that reinforced his message.
“Keep in mind that kindness is not a flaw—it is a formidable power,” he stated. “It’s just as easy to be kind as it is to be unkind.” The actor touched on the topic of jealousy, describing it as a sensation arising from “ignorance and a lack of confidence in your own abilities.” It’s a sentiment he humorously confessed to having felt, especially in comparison to former commencement speaker Stephen Colbert. “Transform your jealousy into admiration and utilize it to drive your ambition positively,” Carell recommended.
The actor was awarded an honorary Doctor of Arts by Northwestern, strengthening his connection to Chicago. The windy city was where he launched his comedy career, having gained his first experience in improvisation during a workshop led by Northwestern students. “That motivated me to eventually relocate to Chicago and pursue a career with The Second City,” he recounted in his speech. His connections to the city and the institution run deeper, as two of his children have studied at Northwestern—Annie, from the class of 2023, and Johnny, who is set to graduate next year.
Throughout his address, Carell further emphasized the significance of listening, even in the realm of comedy, stating: “An improv performance stalls without mutual listening. The most effective way to perceive and comprehend another individual is to listen to them. Listening is a way to exhibit respect.” He continued this thought, “Some say, ‘You must earn my respect.’ How about this? Rather than making people earn your respect, begin by showing respect. Resist the natural tendency to be cynical. Assume they are fundamentally good people.”
In conclusion, the actor offered straightforward recommendations: “Don’t rely on ChatGPT for personal emails. That’s simply pathetic. Open doors for others, irrespective of gender, age, or political views. Dance once in a while and, ultimately, you’ll never regret keeping connections with those who shared such a pivotal experience with you. Stay in contact.”
Actor Steve Carell provided a wealth of perceptive advice to the graduates of 2025 in his commencement address at Northwestern University, while incorporating a humorous element that solidified his message.
Watch his complete commencement address below:
Steve Carell: [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/stevecarellofficial/)
Sources: [Steve Carell Northwestern 2025 Graduation Commencement Speech](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyPkWwSFo-Q); [Class of 2025 treated to laughter, dancing and wisdom at the United Center](https://news.northwestern.edu/stories/2025/06/northwestern-steve-carell-celebrate-graduation-class-of-2025/); [Steve Carell will speak at Northwestern University’s 2025 commencement](https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/06/10/steve-carell-northwestern-commencement/)