Introduction
Kenan Thompson, the long-time Saturday Night Live performer, revealed in a recent interview that his daughters play a big role in keeping him in tune with current trends. Speaking to News Of Los Angeles as part of a partnership with Jim Beam, Thompson shared how his children’s interests intersect with his work and how they help him stay relevant.
At a Glance
- Kenan Thompson says his 7- and 11-year-old daughters are his biggest pop-culture teachers.
- He noted that while his kids are “a little young” to watch SNL, they love his earlier projects like Good Burger.
- The comedian highlighted that his daughters’ curiosity keeps him updated on everything from soccer to new music.
- Why it matters: It shows how a seasoned entertainer can stay current by learning from younger family members.
Family Influence on Career
Kenan Thompson’s daughters are “more so mad if I don’t take them to be around it, too,” he laughed, emphasizing how their enthusiasm shapes his perspective. The 7-year-old and 11-year-old girls often comment on his SNL appearances, asking if he will bring Ariana Grande or who he’ll meet next. Thompson explained that he is “pretty calm and just very casual” on stage, which contrasts with the “exaggerated person” his daughters see on television.
Career Highlights
Thompson’s journey began in the mid-90s and has spanned television, film, and live comedy. Below is a concise timeline of key milestones:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1994 | Cast member on All That with Kel Mitchell |
| 1996 | Starred in Kenan & Kel with Kel Mitchell |
| 1997 | Good Burger movie released, based on their All That characters |
| 2005-present | Joined the cast of Saturday Night Live |
These achievements illustrate how Thompson’s early work laid the foundation for his long-standing role on SNL.
Daughters’ Perspective
When asked how his kids view his on-screen persona, Thompson said, “They definitely separate the two. They’re like, ‘Why aren’t you like that guy?'” He added that his daughters see him as a different person off-camera, describing him as “authoritarian kind of” and “not a joke teller.” Their curiosity about pop culture keeps the contrast clear and helps him understand what resonates with younger audiences.
Pop Culture Pulse
Thompson shared that his 11-year-old daughter is “the finger on the young pulse of all of it.” She teaches him about every soccer player, club, and new artist, explaining that she “knows literally about everything.” The younger daughter, while still a child, follows trends passionately, often switching favorites rapidly. Thompson found this dynamic “funny to watch” and appreciated the “vast amount of things” his daughters navigate daily.
Partnership with Jim Beam
The interview was tied to Thompson’s partnership with Jim Beam, where he serves as a brand ambassador. He explained that the collaboration allowed him to discuss his personal life and family in a relaxed setting, making the conversation more relatable to fans. Thompson said, “It’s a great opportunity to share how my daughters influence my work and how I stay current with their help.”
SNL Role and Personal Identity
While his daughters are “a little young” to watch SNL, Thompson emphasized that he keeps a clear boundary between his live-action persona and his real self. He described himself as calm, casual, and not “explosive or smirky” unless something genuinely funny occurs. This distinction helps his children understand the difference between the comedian they see on TV and the man they know at home.
Influence on Family Dynamics
Thompson noted that his family life is enriched by the constant exchange of pop-culture knowledge. He said, “They always get to see the person that I am … not like the exaggerated person.” The exchange of trends and new music not only keeps him informed but also strengthens the bond with his daughters, who feel heard and respected.
Key Takeaways
- Kenan Thompson’s daughters, aged 7 and 11, act as his pop-culture mentors.
- His early career on All That, Kenan & Kel, and Good Burger set the stage for his SNL success.
- The partnership with Jim Beam provided a platform to discuss family influence on his work.
- Thompson’s ability to separate his on-stage persona from his real self helps his children navigate his public image.
- The dynamic illustrates how family can play a vital role in an entertainer’s relevance and authenticity.
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