Award-winning comedian and actor Kenan Thompson recently received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame.
According to reports, Thompson’s star was revealed during a special ceremony honoring his achievements on Aug. 11. He attended the Los Angeles ceremony with his friends, colleagues, and family members, including his wife, Christina Evangeline, and their two daughters: Georgia Marie Thompson (8) and Gianna Michelle Thompson (4).
“Let the church say amen,” the 44-year-old said in jest as he began his acceptance speech. “This is very surreal. It’s amazing. My whole family [is] here. My little ones are here, so I’ll make this short because she’s getting mad (laughs). I can’t thank everybody that’s here enough. I never thought any of this would be possible. I just wanted to act and entertain and have a good time and put smiles on my family members’ faces, and that grew into the world now, apparently. It’s just an honor and a privilege.”
During his speech, he also shouted out his long-time collaborator, Kel Mitchell, who could not attend. The two famously became pop culture staples in the ’90s via the hit Nickelodeon show Kenan and Kel (1996-2000). Before that, they were on the generation-defining comedy show All That (1994-2005).
Thomspon noted that his star is next to SNL creator Lorne Michaels.’ He joined the iconic series’ cast nearly 20 years ago in 2003, making him its longest-running cast member.
“It’s just an honor and a privilege going in next to the G.O.A.T. Lorne Michaels. That’s really cool,” he said.
In addition, the Atlanta native’s long-time collaborators and friends gave heartfelt speeches about working alongside him, including SNL co-star Leslie Jones, comedian JB Smoove and former co-star from Nickelodeon, Josh Server.
Thompson’s star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame arrived after it was announced that he’s scheduled to host the 74th Emmy Awards on Sept. 12. He was reportedly awarded an Emmy of his own in 2018 for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics for SNL. In 2021, he was nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for SNL and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for Kenan.
