"Family Guy" Creator Seth MacFarlane Class Day | Harvard Commencement 2006 | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this video, Seth MacFarlane is introduced as the class day speaker at Harvard. The introduction includes fun facts about Seth's career and his success with the hit TV show Family Guy. Seth then takes the stage and delivers a humorous and insightful speech, offering advice and anecdotes to the graduating class.

Questions & Answers

Q: Where did Seth MacFarlane study animation?

Seth studied animation at the Rhode Island School of Design.

Q: What impressed executives at hanna-barbera about Seth's work?

Seth created his first animated short film while studying at the Rhode Island School of Design, which impressed executives at hanna-barbera. They encouraged Seth to move to Los Angeles to create and direct a short film for them.

Q: What animated series did Seth work on before Family Guy?

Seth worked on numerous animated series including Ace Ventura and Johnny Bravo.

Q: What is Family Guy about?

Family Guy is a prime time animated series that centers on the comings and goings of a unique and hilarious New England family. One of the show's most beloved characters is Stewie, a one-year-old baby with plans to take over the world.

Q: What characters does Seth provide the voice for in Family Guy?

Seth provides the voice for several characters in Family Guy, including Stewie, Peter (the family's dim-witted patriarch), Brian (the family's erudite pet dog), and Quagmire (their sex-crazed neighbor). He is also involved in the animation, writing, music, and direction of the series.

Q: How many Emmys has Seth won for Family Guy?

Seth has won two Emmys for Family Guy, one for outstanding voiceover performance and another for outstanding music and lyrics.

Q: What happened to Family Guy after it was canceled in 2002?

Fox canceled Family Guy in 2002, but the show's passionate fan base and stellar DVD sales convinced Fox to put the show back on the air.

Q: What is the popularity of Family Guy among college students?

The popularity of Family Guy among college students is unparalleled. On facebook.com, users at Harvard and nationwide list Family Guy as their favorite TV show, topping others like The Simpsons, The OC, and even 24.

Q: How does Seth MacFarlane feel about being invited to speak at Harvard?

Seth expresses his gratitude for being invited to speak at Harvard and acknowledges that this is the most prestigious college in the world. He jokingly compares his education at Rhode Island School of Design, an art school, to the accomplishments of Harvard graduates.

Q: What advice does Seth have for the graduating class?

Seth encourages the graduating class to embrace the real world, where there is no dress rehearsal or rough drafts. He advises against getting tattoos without understanding the language and warns against being fooled by shallow popular songs. He also suggests having at least one Jewish friend and urges caution when delving into politics.

Takeaways

Seth MacFarlane's speech at Harvard offers a mix of humor and wisdom for the graduating class. He encourages the graduates to stay young, curious, and open-minded as they embark on their adult lives. He imparts advice on various topics such as tattoos, popular culture, religion, and the importance of preserving a sense of wonder. Overall, Seth's speech is a memorable and entertaining addition to the class day ceremony.