NBC recently paid tribute to one of their most beloved “Saturday Night Live” stars, Kenan Thompson, with a remarkable lifetime opportunity.
The comedian joined the network’s list of in-house celebrities chosen to emcee the annual celebration of television’s most significant contributors at the 74th Emmy Awards.
Kenan Thompson Says Hosting The Emmys Is ‘Ridiculously Exciting’
The comedian excitedly shared the news on his Instagram page with a short video that had Drake’s Elevate playing in the background.
The “Love Don’t Cost A Thing” actor’s clip had a tag that partly read, “Y’all heard ya boy hosting the #Emmys?!!! It’s gonna be a great night. See you there, Sept. 12!…”
Given his outstanding track record, especially on NBC, it made sense that the Ohio native received the honor of presiding over the 2022 Emmys.
As shared by Entertainment Weekly, the network and TV Academy announced that the “Fat Albert” star would present the upcoming award ceremony on Tuesday, August 9.
The prestigious event shall hold on Monday, September 12, on NBC, making the comedian the latest addition to the long list of SNL stars to Grace the annual show.
Over the years, 24 of the network’s in-house personalities have led the Emmys, including iconic figures like Michael Che, Colin Jost, Andy Samberg, Seth Meyers, and Jimmy Fallon.
This list extended to former SNL cast members such as Eddie Murphy, Candice Bergen, and Dennis Miller. Comedy sketch writer Conan O’Brien and contributor Stephen Colbert have also hosted the Emmys.
Naturally, having the opportunity to serve as an emcee for one of the biggest nights in the entertainment industry could be described as a dream come true.
However, Thompson found greater satisfaction in participating in this NBC tradition. Following the announcement, the “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” actor expressed his gratitude in a statement.
“Being a part of this incredible evening where we honor the best of the television community is ridiculously exciting,” the comedian gushed, “and to do it on NBC — my longtime network family — makes it even more special.”
Despite being a celebrated actor, Thompson remained a fanboy at heart, confessing in his statement that he could not wait to meet his favorite TV personalities at the Emmys.
A few stars may want the actor’s autograph, as snatching the hosting spot at the award show was not the only highlight on the 44-year-old’s trophy case.
Aside from being the longest-running cast member in SNL history, the “Heavyweights” star has been nominated six times for an Emmy throughout his career.
Out of these nominations, the Ohio native received one award in 2018 for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics in the SNL skit, “Come Back, Barack.”
Although Thompson has received worldwide recognition for his contributions to the NBC late-night show, the comedian’s time in the comedy franchise may end.
Last month, The Blast reported that the “D2: The Mighty Ducks” actor discussed the possibility of the show coming to an end at 50.
The 44-year-old explained that the franchise’s creator, Lorne Michaels, would be close to 80 and may probably retire.
The comedian believed that if NBC tried to fill the producer’s shoes with someone else, this decision would reduce the show’s quality.
Instead of watching the beloved show lose its touch, Thompson stated that it would be beneficial for SNL to end at 50 without destroying its legacy.
The Kids’ Choice Award Winner Shall Receive A Hollywood Walk Of Fame Star
August has been filled with good news for Thompson, as The Blast previously revealed that the 44-year-old added to his list of accolades.
The “Snakes on a Plane” star became the 2,728th recipient of a prestigious star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. An honor that shall be bestowed on the Ohio native on August 11.
The award ceremony, used to acknowledge the most influential entertainment industry members, shall be held on Hollywood Boulevard.
In recognition of their achievements, Thompson, alongside TV icons like Regina King, Holly Robinson Peete, Byron Allen, and Michael Strahan, each received a star.
The news kept getting better for the SNL alum as the “Kenan & Kel” actor’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Star shall be placed beside Michaels’s name, the creator of the comedy show.
Josh Server, the comedian’s friend, paid tribute to the father-of-two on Instagram by sharing a promotional image about the award ceremony.
This post revealed that Server, JB Smoove, and Leslie Jones would attend the event as guest speakers.