Kenan Thompson, the longest-serving cast member in "Saturday Night Live" history, recently opened up about the emotional challenges of his enduring tenure on the iconic sketch comedy show. In a candid conversation on the "Thanks Dad With Ego Nwodim" podcast, Thompson shared insights into the bittersweet nature of his 21-season run.
Thompson, who joined SNL in 2003, spoke about the difficulty of witnessing the constant ebb and flow of cast members throughout his time on the show. "Being there a long time, you watch people come and go," he explained, highlighting the emotional toll of parting ways with colleagues who have become friends.
The comedian emphasized that it's not just cast departures that weigh heavily on his heart. Thompson revealed that the SNL family has experienced losses beyond professional partings, including the deaths of crew members. This sobering reality adds a layer of complexity to his long-standing role on the show.
Recent cast changes have brought these feelings to the forefront once again. Thompson mentioned the departures of Punkie Johnson and Molly Kearney ahead of the current 50th season, underscoring the ongoing nature of these transitions.
Despite the challenges, Thompson's talent and adaptability continue to impress both audiences and fellow comedians. Andy Samberg, a former SNL cast member who recently returned as a guest star, marveled at Thompson's enduring comedic prowess. "How is this fool still killing it so hard?" Samberg wondered aloud during an appearance on Kevin Hart's "Hart to Heart" show.
Thompson's longevity on SNL has not gone unrecognized by the industry. He has received multiple Emmy nominations for his work on the show and secured a win in 2018 for co-writing the comedy song "Come Back, Barack."
As SNL moves forward, Thompson's presence remains a constant, bridging generations of comedy and serving as a testament to the show's enduring legacy. His reflections offer a poignant glimpse into the emotional landscape of a career spent at the forefront of American comedy.