Original ‘Blue’s Clues’ Host Shares Journey of Creativity and Mental Health
Steve Burns connected Dickinson community during heartwarming Poitras-Gleim lecture
by Alex Sonfield ’25; photos by Amelia Rehrman ’26
Steve Burns, the beloved original host of Blue’s Clues, captivated the audience during the Poitras-Gleim lecture on Wednesday evening. Known as “Steve” to millions of children from 1996 to 2002, Burns shared candid insights into his time on the show and beyond. He revealed that when he first auditioned, he thought Blue’s Clues was a game show, not a children’s show.
Throughout the lecture, Burns spoke openly about his various creative pursuits—acting, music and directing—and how they have helped him express himself and manage his emotions. He touched on a deeply personal topic: his untreated depression during his Blue’s Clues days, which ultimately influenced his decision to leave the show.
The Q&A session was especially moving, filled with heartfelt thank-yous from the audience and a reciprocal warmth from Burns. He addressed questions that ventured into coping with current events and mental health. Although he insisted he wasn’t there to give advice, his personal stories resonated as gentle guidance on resilience and living in an uncertain world.
“It was really impactful to hear from someone who prioritized their mental health, and was able to have a successful career doing something he loved," said Nora Stocovaz ’25 (classical studies, anthropology). "Students were clearly really connected with Steve, which created a welcoming and inviting environment for a hard conversation about mental well-being.”
The annual Poitras-Gleim Lecture, which was endowed by a gift from Ted and Kay Gleim Poitras ’53, provides a forum to explore and promote cross-disciplinary thought and communication. The Student Senate Academics Committee organizes and oversees the Poitras-Gleim Lecture and is tasked with fostering vibrant campus discussions about academic and political issues through seminars, lectures and debates. Previous Poitras-Gleim lecturers have included astronaut, engineer and physician Mae Jemison; American writer Piper Kerman; Edward Ricourt '95, screenwriter; and Dr. Ruth Westheimer, therapist, radio and TV personality, and documentary film maker.
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Published November 8, 2024