Jerry Seinfeld, an American actor and comedian, has consistently expressed his support for Israel during the Gaza conflict. During his speech at Duke University’s graduation ceremony, he faced criticism from pro-Palestinian students. As Seinfeld was called to the stage, dozens of students walked out in protest.
Seinfeld, who has been vocal about his positive stance towards Israel in the Gaza war, did not receive the expected warmth at Duke University. At the university’s graduation ceremony, held on Sunday, numerous students left the event. Seinfeld, who was awarded an honorary doctorate, saw this protest reflected in photos shared on social media.
Despite this, the 70-year-old comedian was well-received by many in the audience, who cheered during his speech. However, some students exited the campus as university president Vincent Price introduced Seinfeld. Media reports noted that there were chants of “Free Palestine” as he took the stage.
Video clips from the ceremony show many students rising from their seats and walking out after Seinfeld’s name was announced. Some of these students, despite wearing graduation robes and caps, displayed the Palestinian flag.
🚨🇺🇸BREAKING: DUKE UNIVERSITY WALKS OUT OF GRADUATION
When Jerry Seinfeld was introduced to speak, the students got up, held up a Palestine Flag, and walked out.pic.twitter.com/p4pUfSUdjA
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) May 12, 2024
While this protest was a notable setback, Seinfeld had supporters in the crowd who chanted his name upon his arrival. Another video showed supporters of Seinfeld booing the departing students. In response, Seinfeld remarked,
“A lot of you are thinking, ‘I can’t believe they invited this guy.’ Too late.”
During his speech, Seinfeld also discussed privilege, saying,
“I say, use your privilege. I grew up a Jewish boy from New York. That is a privilege if you want to be a comedian.”
Seinfeld has supported Israel since the Hamas conflict began in October last year. He visited Tel Aviv in December and met with the families of hostages taken by Hamas. When asked about his motivation for the visit, Seinfeld simply replied, “Well, I’m Jewish.”
