‘Kindness isn’t a weakness,’ Steve Carell tells Northwestern grads at commencement

In a moment that would have made Michael Scott proud, actor and comedian Steve Carell led Northwestern University graduates in a surprise dance break during his commencement speech Sunday at the United Center.

“It is time now to follow me in the mid-commencement address dance break,” Carell told the more than 2,500 graduates before busting a move to The Ting Tings’ hit “That’s Not My Name.” Carell boogied with staff behind the podium and then jogged off stage to high-five and celebrate with graduates.

The brief intermission was reminiscent of “Cafe Disco,” a memorable episode of the “The Office” where Carell’s character Scott sets up a dance party and encourages his employees to join in to de-stress.

“That was as invigorating as it was disturbing,” Carell quipped after the minute-long break as he tried to catch his breath. “Wow, am I out of shape.”

But Carell’s speech also blended fun with sincerity. He sent off the graduates with some advice on how to deal with their fears and anxieties as they leave college for the wider world.

“Remember the little things, like being kind and that you’re not alone,” Carell said. “Take care of one another. Remember to laugh when you have the opportunity and to cry when necessary.”

Carell reminded graduates that “kindness isn’t a weakness — it is a very potent strength.” He encouraged the Class of 2025 to harness their insecurities and channel them into something constructive, saying, “Turn your jealousy into admiration and use it to fuel your ambition in a positive way.”

Carell was also one of four professionals who received an honorary degree for their leadership in their respective fields.

Though Carell was on stage this year, in 2023 he was in the audience along with his wife, Nancy, to celebrate their daughter’s graduation from the university.

Gov. JB Pritzker was the commencement speaker that year and delivered an address full of quotes from “The Office,” only to find out afterward that Carell was in attendance. The two met briefly after the speech with Carell telling the governor that he liked the speech.