Will Ferrell’s recent commencement address at the University of Southern California: a speech that will rival JKRowling’s Harvard speech as one of the greatest graduation talks ever. But for very different reasons.

Advertisement

While the Harry Potter author delivered a powerful message of never giving in, Ferrell delivered a cover version of I Will Always Love You, written by Dolly Parton and made famous by Whitney Houston.

Ferrell told the Class of 2017 that they would “never be alone in whatever path you choose. If you do have a moment where you feel down, just think about the support you have from this great Trojan family [a Trojan is the symbol of the university]. Imagine me— literally picture my face — singing this song, gently into your ear.”

And sing he did.

Ferrell also returned to his former University (where he studied Sports Information – “a program so difficult, so arduous, that they discontinued the major eight years after I left”) to receive an honorary doctorate.

“I’ve already instructed my wife and my children from this point they have to address me as Dr Ferrell,” the Step Brothers star said. “There will be no exceptions, especially at our children’s various school functions, and when opening Christmas presents.”

Advertisement

You can see his entire speech – and singing – below.

Authors

Thomas LingDigital editor, BBC Science Focus

Thomas is Digital editor at BBC Science Focus. Writing about everything from cosmology to anthropology, he specialises in the latest psychology, health and neuroscience discoveries. Thomas has a Masters degree (distinction) in Magazine Journalism from the University of Sheffield and has written for Men’s Health, Vice and Radio Times. He has been shortlisted as the New Digital Talent of the Year at the national magazine Professional Publishers Association (PPA) awards. Also working in academia, Thomas has lectured on the topic of journalism to undergraduate and postgraduate students at The University of Sheffield.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement