The Most Inspirational Celebrity Speeches of All Time

Celebrities are not just famous for their talent, but also for their ability to inspire others. Whether they are accepting an award, delivering a commencement speech, or simply sharing their experiences with fans, their words can leave a lasting impact. Here are some of the most inspirational celebrity speeches of all time.

Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address

In 2005, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs delivered a commencement speech at Stanford University that went on to become one of the most famous speeches of all time. Jobs shared his personal journey, including his initial struggles and eventual success, and encouraged the graduates to follow their passions and take risks.

Oprah Winfrey’s 2018 Golden Globes Speech

At the 2018 Golden Globes, Oprah Winfrey became the first African-American woman to receive the Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement. In her acceptance speech, Winfrey spoke about the power of speaking truth to power and the importance of fighting for justice.

Ellen DeGeneres’ 2015 Tulane University Commencement Address

Ellen DeGeneres delivered the commencement address at Tulane University in 2015, where she shared her own experiences of overcoming obstacles and finding success in the entertainment industry. She also emphasized the importance of kindness and urged the graduates to make the world a better place.

J.K. Rowling’s 2008 Harvard Commencement Address

In 2008, Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling gave a commencement address at Harvard University, where she spoke about the power of failure and the importance of imagination. She shared her own struggles and setbacks on the path to success, and encouraged the graduates to persevere in the face of adversity.

Denzel Washington’s 2011 University of Pennsylvania Commencement Address

Actor Denzel Washington gave a commencement address at the University of Pennsylvania in 2011, where he spoke about the importance of having a strong work ethic and pursuing your dreams. He also emphasized the value of giving back and helping others along the way.

Maya Angelou’s 1993 Inaugural Poem for President Bill Clinton

Maya Angelou delivered an inaugural poem at President Bill Clinton’s inauguration in 1993, where she spoke about the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope. Her words captured the nation’s attention and left a lasting impact on those who heard them.

Chadwick Boseman’s 2018 Howard University Commencement Address

In 2018, just months before his untimely death, actor Chadwick Boseman delivered a commencement address at Howard University, where he spoke about the importance of finding purpose and pursuing one’s dreams. He shared his own struggles and experiences on the path to success, and urged the graduates to make a difference in the world.

Lady Gaga – 2019 Oscars

Lady Gaga’s emotional performance of “Shallow” at the 2019 Academy Awards was a standout moment, but her acceptance speech for Best Original Song was equally powerful. She spoke about the importance of hard work and perseverance, saying “It’s not about winning, it’s about not giving up. If you have a dream, fight for it. There’s a discipline for passion, and it’s not about how many times you get rejected or you fall down or you’re beaten up. It’s about how many times you stand up and are brave and you keep on going.” Her words were a reminder to never give up on your dreams, no matter how challenging the journey may be.

Malala Yousafzai’s 2013 United Nations Address

Malala Yousafzai, the young activist who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban for her advocacy for girls’ education, gave a powerful address at the United Nations in 2013. She spoke about the importance of education and the need to fight for the rights of all children around the world.

Jim Carrey’s 2014 Maharishi University Commencement Address

In 2014, actor Jim Carrey gave a commencement address at Maharishi University, where he spoke about the power of choosing love over fear and the importance of pursuing one’s passions. He shared his own experiences of overcoming doubt and insecurity, and encouraged the graduates to embrace their uniqueness.

Will Smith’s 2005 Kids’ Choice Awards Acceptance Speech

At the 2005 Kids’ Choice Awards, actor Will Smith delivered a humorous and heartfelt acceptance speech that left

an indelible impression on the audience. Smith won the award for Favorite Movie Actor for his role in “Shark Tale,” and he used his acceptance speech to impart some wisdom and inspiration to the young viewers in attendance. In his speech, Smith acknowledged that the Kids’ Choice Awards were a unique event that celebrated the power of youth. He encouraged the children watching to embrace their individuality, saying, “I want to say to all the kids out there, be yourselves. Don’t be afraid to be different. Be afraid to be the same as everyone else.”