Kenan Thompson Reveals Why He's Sticking With SNL
The longest-running cast member, set to return for his 24th season, cites his love for the cast and crew as the reason he hasn't left the show yet, and shares a story about nearly quitting acting after struggling to learn hockey
Kenan Thompson, the longest-running cast member of Saturday Night Live, has explained why he hasn't left the show yet. In a recent appearance on Amy Poehler's podcast, Good Hang, Thompson cited his love for the cast and crew as the reason he's stuck around. He's set to return for his 24th season on the show.
Thompson joined SNL in 2003, alongside Poehler, and has since become a staple of the show. He's had the opportunity to work with many talented cast members over the years, including Maya Rudolph, and considers them a family. Thompson has stated that he has no plans to leave SNL anytime soon, and loves being close to the cast and crew.
In addition to discussing his time on SNL, Thompson also shared a story about nearly quitting acting after struggling to learn hockey for his role in D2: The Mighty Ducks. He was cast as Russ Tyler in the 1994 hockey sequel, but found it challenging to learn the sport. Thompson's mother, Elizabeth Ann Thompson, encouraged him to continue acting, and he eventually learned how to ice skate after eight weeks of training.
Thompson's love for the cast and crew of SNL is precisely why he sticks around. He's not afraid of how it will be when he leaves, but rather prefers to stay with the people he considers family. As he prepares for his 24th season on the show, Thompson is grateful for the opportunity to continue doing what he loves.
## Why it matters Thompson's decision to stay with SNL is significant, as he's become an integral part of the show. His love for the cast and crew is a testament to the strong bonds that form between colleagues in the entertainment industry. As the longest-running cast member, Thompson's experience and dedication to the show are invaluable, and his return for the 24th season is highly anticipated.
Thompson is 48 years old and has daughters named Georgia and Gianna with his ex-wife Christina Evangeline. He's proud of his skills on the ice, which he developed during his time filming D2: The Mighty Ducks. Poehler has praised Thompson's skating skills, saying he's one of her friends who skates the best.
