Why Kenan Thompson Must Stay on SNL Despite Season 51 Changes!

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Following the conclusion of season 50 of Saturday Night Live, there has been much discussion surrounding potential cast changes. However, one individual who shouldn’t be leaving the show is undoubtedly Kenan Thompson. With whispers of upcoming alterations for season 51, such as cast and behind-the-scenes adjustments, these rumors have fueled curiosity about the future of many cast members, including Kenan. Despite the uncertainty, it’s challenging to envision Saturday Night Live without Kenan, and it seems almost unbelievable that there might be a chance he could be leaving.

In 2003, Kenan became a member of Saturday Night Live (SNL) and has been part of the main cast since then. For an actor, being a cast member is quite an accomplishment and often requires a different type of acting than they’re used to, but that wasn’t the case for Kenan. At 47 years old, he had already gained experience in the sketch comedy genre through his work on Nickelodeon’s All That from 1994-1999. Joining SNL was a logical step forward for him since he was accustomed to working in such an environment. The show has played a significant role in launching Kenan’s career, so I don’t think we’ll see him leaving the series any time soon.

Kenan Has Been On SNL The Longest

Among the cast scheduled for the 2024-2025 season, Kenan has been a member the longest, surpassing other members by more than a decade. Colin Jost and Michael Che follow closely behind, having joined in 2014 as Weekend Update co-anchors. Many of the current cast members joined shortly after Colin and Michael, with the majority joining between 2020 and 2024. Despite his two decades on the show, I believe Kenan’s lengthy tenure demonstrates his commitment to the series rather than signaling a desire to depart.

Over the years, Kenan’s consistent involvement in SNL has given viewers a sense of familiarity and comfort. He’s not just a key figure on the show; he embodies a significant part of its essence. Whether leading a skit or embodying one of his legendary characters, Kenan’s presence enhances every episode he graces with his humor. His impeccable comedic timing and knack for bonding with both viewers and cast members make him an invaluable asset to the show. As long as he continues to find joy in his work, it seems there’s no reason for Kenan to leave SNL.

Kenan Is One Of The Funniest Cast Members On The Show

Among many hilarious cast members who have graced the stage of SNL, Kenan stands out as one of the funniest. His memorable roles such as Diondre Cole in What Up With That? and recurring impersonation of Steve Harvey in Family Feud sketches, along with his portrayal of Darnell Hayes hosting Black Jeopardy, have left a lasting impression on the audience. In even the weaker sketches he’s been involved in, Kenan’s humor often elevates them to become standout moments.

As an ardent fan of Saturday Night Live (SNL), I can confidently say that Kenan is undeniably a charismatic figure who’s become a beloved constant in the show’s landscape. His departure would undoubtedly leave a significant void in the SNL cast. Although many cast members are hilarious, it’s Kenan who has consistently made me laugh the most since he joined the show.

Kenan Has Remained On The Show Despite Cast Turnovers

For over half a century on television, Saturday Night Live (SNL) has experienced numerous cast transitions. Although some of these alterations may not have been universally accepted (including my personal view), Kenan stands out as the cast member who’s managed to stay put amidst the show’s recurring cast shake-ups. In an interview with Page Six, Kenan discussed potential future cast adjustments as they approach wrapping up season 50. He expressed that this moment is both “bittersweet,” and he’s ready for any upcoming changes.

Especially this year where it feels like there’s maybe, possibly, a lot of change next year

For quite some time now, Kenan has been a regular fixture on the show, providing a sense of familiarity. This consistency is probably appreciated by both Kenan and the producers of SNL, as it offers viewers a degree of continuity as they transition into each new season.

All in all, Kenan shines brilliantly on Saturday Night Live, and it would be disheartening if he were to depart from the sketch comedy series. He has grown to be such an integral element of the show and its characters. Here’s hoping that Kenan isn’t facing the axe and continues as a cast member for at least another season.

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2025-05-27 15:20