Instagram/@matthewlillard
The students at UC Riverside delivered an emotional tribute to Matthew Lillard, an iconic performer who conducted an overtime teaching session, which was then presented to the campus community with much enthusiasm. The actor expressed his gratitude to the students in very warm terms, saying it was a “heavenly” experience and indicating the genuine worth of the connection that was made during his time at the university.
Advertisement
Finally, Matthew Lillard has let his emotions out for UC Riverside and the campus possibly thinks the same. The actor shared an emotional post thanking the students who took part in what must have been a great teaching session that went late into the night. “Dear UC Riverside. Bless all of your beautiful faces,” Lillard light-heartedly said with an affectionate tone. “Thank you for letting me preach-teach the whole night — ya’ll were heavenly company. Much love. M.”
The use of the casual “preach-teach” term very well epitomized Lillard’s mentorship virtues mixed with a down-to-earth personality, and this is the very reason he has been an everlasting figure in Hollywood. Not only did he quickly do a question-and-answer session—he remained for “most of the night,” sharing knowledge and getting very close to the upcoming creators.
The feedback from the students at UCR was instant and very lively. One student remarked, “We loved having you so so so much!!” which was how one commentator summed up the lively feeling among the students. The excitement of the students’ feedback was growing with, “THANK YOU FOR VISITING WE LOVED IT,” a student said. The tone of these responses suggests that Lillard had delivered a typical campus talk well—he created a great event that was deeply felt.
The replies from the students also highlighted the personal impact Lillard had on individual students. “Such an honor to get to talk, meet, and listen to you,” a hopeful filmmaker said. “Hope to see you on set one day.” This is the kind of mentoring that can safely clear the path of an artsy person’s career.
Lillard’s presence and support were busily lavishly expressed through most of the comments and the doings of the fans whom he inspired one by one. “I LUH YOU YOUR THE BEST PERSON TO EVER LOOK UP TOO!” was the roar from one admirer, while another simply shouted, “I want a film of your own!!!!” Just this last comment clearly indicates that the audience doesn’t want just to see Lillard playing different characters—they want him to have movies made on his “amazing” light-up-scene power.
Even some students who were unable to attend the event still sent their love and one wrote, “I’m not there but much love dude.” This is exactly the kind of vibe in the whole campus that happens when an artist visit creates positive disruption even for those students who haven’t joined the event. They feel like they are part of the moment.
The timing of the post created a little bit of drama in the comments section, with several commenters noting how fast they had reacted. “2 Min ago is crazy😂,” any user remarked while another person had fun saying, “1 min ago feels illegal.” The quick back-and-forth is an indicator of the extent to which students were eager to tell Lillard their thoughts right after the event.
One commenter even made future plans by saying, “See you at motor city tomorrow!” hinting that the teaching tour of Lillard might cover more places. However, another student was even more direct and asked: “Come to Chapman U for a masterclass!” thus proving that the news of his incredible teaching style is already letting people know beyond that one campus.
What stands out most in the reactions is the genuine love that students have for Lillard—not just as a star but as a teacher who really cares for the new generation. The constant posting of “WE LOVE YOU” comments, many of them in capital letters and often accompanied by heart emojis, show that this was not just another visit from a celebrity to the campus. It was a meaningful communication between an experienced professional and an eager-to-learn audience that has created one of those rare cases where education is less about lecturing and more about sharing the passion.
Advertisement
Matthew Lillard’s talent for making such an authentic and student-friendly atmosphere is the very reason he is still a favorite actor after many years in the industry. It is clear that UC Riverside through the warm interaction with students has created a living memory of the visit of a master artist that will linger long after the classroom lights have been turned off. His recent return as William Afton demonstrates his continued relevance in entertainment, while his participation in a historic Ring of Chaos game shows his competitive spirit. Lillard’s collaboration with Ice Nine Kills highlights his diverse creative partnerships, and he’s known to prepare for Dungeons and Dragons nights with his impressive collection.