Kenan Thompson Reflects on 21 Seasons of Saturday Night Live and Family Ties

Kenan Thompson, the longest-running cast member of Saturday Night Live (SNL), has recently opened up about his 21-season journey on the iconic comedy show. In various interviews, Thompson has shared the highs and lows of his extensive tenure, highlighting both the rewards and the challenges he has faced[2][4].

Thompson reflected on the bittersweet nature of his long-term commitment to SNL, noting that while it has been an incredible experience, it also comes with its share of difficulties. He mentioned that one of the hardest parts is the constant need to adapt and find new ways to be funny, as well as the emotional toll of seeing colleagues come and go over the years.

Beyond his career at SNL, Thompson has also spoken about the significant role his family has played in his life. Raised in Atlanta by his parents, Fletcher and Elizabeth Ann Thompson, Kenan and his siblings, Kerwin and Feleecia, were actively involved in community activities such as youth choirs and theater programs. Their family bond was strengthened by late-night comedy sketch watch parties, which instilled in them a love for humor from a young age.

Despite their busy schedules, the Thompson siblings have remained close. Kenan’s brother, Kerwin, has praised him for his kind and gracious nature, saying that Kenan leads by example. Feleecia, who has maintained a lower public profile, is often seen on her brothers’ social media posts, including a heartfelt message from Kenan on National Siblings Day in 2020.

In 2022, Kenan Thompson was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, an event attended by both his siblings. This recognition underscored his enduring impact on the entertainment industry and his remarkable longevity on SNL.