Kenan Thompson (born May 10, 1978) is an American comedian and actor, known for being the longest-tenured cast member on NBC’s Saturday Night Live since 2003. He was the first regular cast member born after the show premiered in 1975. Thompson began his career in the early 1990s as an original cast member of Nickelodeon’s All That and starred in the sitcom Kenan & Kel (1996–2001). He has received six Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his work on SNL, winning once.
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Kenan Thompson Net Worth
Kenan Thompson has a net worth of $13 million. On Saturday Night Live (SNL), first-year cast members earn $7,000 per episode, totaling about $147,000 per season, while second-year members earn $8,000 per episode.
After five seasons, the pay rises to $15,000 per episode, totaling $315,000 annually. Veteran cast members make $25,000 per episode, earning $525,000 per year. Given his long tenure since 2003, Thompson’s salary is likely between $2-3 million per year.
Early life
Kenan Thompson was born on May 10, 1978, in Columbus, Ohio, to parents Fletcher and Elizabeth Ann Thompson. He has an older brother and a younger sister. At nine months old, his family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where his mother enrolled him in acting classes at age five.
Thompson’s first role was as Toto in a church production of The Wiz, and he continued acting in school plays, including The Gingerbread Duck. A fan of The Price Is Right, he credits the show for shaping his acting style.
Career
Kenan Thompson joined Saturday Night Live in 2003, becoming the first cast member born after its premiere in 1975. Initially dismissed for looking too young, he became a featured player until 2005 and was promoted to repertory player in 2006.
Thompson, who has been on SNL for 22 seasons, holds the record for the longest-tenured cast member and most celebrity impressions performed. He has won a Primetime Emmy and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on August 11, 2022, marking his 20th anniversary on the show.
Personal life
Kenan Thompson married model Christina Evangeline in 2011 and has two daughters: Georgia Marie (b. June 20, 2014) and Gianna Michelle (b. July 31, 2018). They separated in April 2022, with Thompson filing for divorce in June 2022. In 2020, he became the spokesman for Universal Destinations’ “Let Yourself Woah” campaign.
He has hosted various award shows, including the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Thompson co-founded Artists for Artists in 2021 and released his memoir, When I Was Your Age, in December 2023.
Why did Kenan and Kel stop?
“Kenan & Kel” came to an end as both Thompson and Mitchell pursued different paths post-1999. Their exit from “All That” and subsequent cancellation of their namesake show led them on divergent career trajectories, with Thompson eventually joining SNL.
Conclusion
Kenan Thompson’s journey from a child star to a central figure in American comedy, marked by his tenure on SNL and his impressive net worth, illustrates not just his talent and hard work but also his significant impact on the genre of comedy. His legacy, both in terms of financial success and cultural influence, continues to grow, solidifying his status as a comedy empire’s king.
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FAQs about Kenan Thompson’s Net Worth
- What contributed to Kenan Thompson’s net worth?
Thompson’s net worth results from his successful career in television, film, and his long-standing role on SNL. - How does Kenan Thompson’s net worth compare to other SNL cast members?
Thompson’s net worth is among the highest in current SNL cast, reflecting his status as the longest-tenured member and a key performer. - Did Kenan Thompson’s roles in films contribute to his net worth?
Yes, his roles in popular films like “Good Burger” and “Fat Albert” have contributed significantly to his overall earnings. - How has Thompson’s career evolved over the years?
Thompson transitioned from child actor to an adult comedian, diversifying his roles from television to film, and becoming a crucial part of SNL’s cast. - What is the secret to Kenan Thompson’s lasting success?
Thompson’s enduring appeal lies in his unique comedic style, versatility in roles, and ability to resonate with diverse audiences across generations.
