Jennifer Coolidge Inspires Emerson Graduates With Humor

Jennifer Coolidge delivered an inspiring and humorous 2025 commencement address at Emerson College, drawing on her upbringing in Norwell, Massachusetts, and her unconventional path to Hollywood success. She shared a childhood story about being disqualified from an obstacle course for skipping all the hurdles, using it as a metaphor for embracing individuality and turning setbacks into motivation. Coolidge encouraged graduates to believe in 'absurd possibilities' and to be their own champions, stressing the importance of self-belief despite criticism or doubt from others. She reflected on her own career struggles, including years of rejection, self-doubt, and late breakthroughs marked by Emmy wins and recent film achievements. Coolidge gave a special nod to her LGBTQ+ fanbase, contributing to the ceremony’s inclusive and lively spirit. She concluded by urging graduates to pursue their passions wholeheartedly and reminded them that fulfillment comes from forging and believing in their own unique stories.