A comedian will tell you that performing silently is hard—but being physically escorted out is much worse. You can’t go lower than that. Still, that’s what happened to Jerry Seinfeld when he went to Duke University in May to pick up an honorary award.
For someone the industry loves as much as him, it would have been a time to celebrate. As a result, the ceremony became surrounded by government strain and protests.
Seinfeld has openly supported Israel, especially right after the failed Hmaas attacks and the fighting in Gaza in October 2024. Many people admire his stand, while others disagree and at Duke it created a lot of discussion.
Before Seinfeld could start, dozens of students arose and walked out, leading the chant “Free, free Palestine”. Some cheered enthusiastically, while many others booed during this division-filled moment at a typical feel-good event.
Smiling, Seinfeld was patient until the demonstrators were gone. With politics not mentioned, he jokingly addressed himself first:
Some of you may be shocked that they invited him. Too late.”
He preferred to make jokes and share advice instead of tackling the walkout or entering into politics.
He mentioned privilege at one stage, explaining:
My answer is clear: use your privilege. New York was home for me and I grew up as a Jewish boy. If you want to work as a comedian, that is a privilege you have.”
The episode was textbook Seinfeld, focused on observation, humor and making fun of themselves.
Also, Duke University issued a message that showed a careful balance between both sides. Frank Tramble, who oversees communications at the school, made the announcement.
“We appreciate the emotions in our community and just as we have all year, we support the right of everyone at Duke to share their thoughts peacefully while graduates and their families celebrate their achievement.”
The protest shows that relations on campuses are getting tense because of the war in Gaza and students and teachers aren’t sure how to speak up without violating free speech rules. The moment was rare because it brought Seinfeld’s politics and his celebrity status together.
But, he dealt with the moment by acting calm and unbothered. No rants. No rebuttals. Simply by lifting an eyebrow and heading back to his usual humor.