This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
When the late, great Whitney Houston covered Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” in 1992, hers became the most popular and some would say definitive version of the song … until now?
Will Ferrell broke into the song at the end of the commencement speech he gave to his alma mater on Friday, KPCC reports. The school awarded the Irvine-born actor/comedian with an honorary doctorate while introducing his speech; Ferrell graduated from USC in 1990 before embarking on his comedy career.
Ferrell begins his nearly 30-minute speech with an apology:
“I would like to apologize to all the parents here who are sitting there saying, ‘Will Ferrell? Why Will Ferrell? I hate Will Ferrell. I hate him. I hate his movies. He’s gross. That discussion is definitely happening out there right now.”
The singing starts at 24 minutes in. You’ll just have to watch to see if he can hit those high notes.
Related:
Photos: Inside Hollywood's Will Ferrell-Themed Pop-Up Bar
Video: Will Ferrell Plays Your 'Typical Millennial' In This Hilarious New Hillary PSA
Photos: The 'Step Brothers'-Inspired Catalina Wine Mixer Returned For A Second Year
